Several resident groups and other organisations have called on Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg to take a clear stance in reassuring that action will be taken to stop "the rampant abuse of open public spaces by commercial establishments."

In a letter addressed to Ian Borg, the resident groups and organisations spoke of the lack of enforcement and lack of action being taken by the authorities to refrain commercial establishments "from illegally appropriating public spaces all over the Maltese Islands. Tables and chairs, umbrellas, planters, food displays, street platforms, enclosures and other paraphernalia have taken over pedestrian areas, pavements, parking spaces, entire streets and beaches reducing the quality of life and safety of residents and visitors alike."

The resident groups and organisations emphasised that the poor enforcement system in the country, "including the insignificant fines applied to commercial establishments committing these illegalities, is encouraging the same operators of these establishments to continue misappropriating public spaces. Furthermore, this situation is creating an uneven playing field, impacting public spaces, urban conservation areas, accessibility, and overall urban management."

The resident groups and organisations also insisted that catering businesses should not be allowed to encroach upon public outdoor areas, and that urban developments must respect physical capacity constraints to ensure a well-planned and sustainable environment "where free public spaces, catering, retail, and creative industries coexist to ensure the authenticity and enhance the experience of our cities and towns." 

The disparity in enforcement across sectors was also addressed by the resident groups and organisations, whereby they stated that if strict compliance is expected in tourism accommodation, the same principle should apply to all commercial activities impacting public spaces. They said that stronger supervision and management, through both technology and traditional enforcement, would help ensure fairness, prevent abuse, and protect the Maltese Islands' tourism and hospitality offering. In addition, they also said that a public database of permits, alongside a transparent reporting system, would further enhance accountability. 

In their letter, the resident groups and organisations urged Borg to take the necessary steps to create a well-regulated, diversified, and vibrant urban environment which respects the well-being of residents.

The letter was signed by: Marsascala Residents' Network; Sliema Residents Association; Residenti Beltin; Residenti tal-Mellieha; San Pawl Residents; Azzjoni: Tuna Artna Lura; Residenti Belt Victoria; Moviment Graffitti; Il-Kollettiv; Flimkien ghal Ambjent Ahjar; Din l-Art Helwa; Wirt Ghawdex; Friends of the Earth Malta; MOVE; ADPD; Momentum