Infrastructure Malta has said that the arches beneath the Marsaskala promenade were in a dangerous state.

The Marsaskala Residents Network had aired concern about demolition works taking place on the arches beneath the promenade on Triq is-Salini , which it said were being done without a permit, and called on the authorities to immediately stop the works.

In a social media post, Infrastructure Malta has said: "Over the years, the arches have suffered extensive deterioration, leaving them in a neglected and dilapidated condition. The structure of the arches had become dangerous for public safety, and therefore, in recent months these same arches were supported with temporary reinforcement to eliminate any immediate risk until reconstruction works could begin."

"The intervention being carried out has one purpose: to remove the danger to the public and to provide the promenade with a safe and stable structure. The arches will be rebuilt from the level of the pier on more solid foundations rising directly from the rock, so that the new structure will be constructed on ground and a strong base. The arches will be rebuilt in the same style as the original ones, in order to preserve as much as possible their architectural character as well as that of Marsaskala."

It said that these works are being carried out following consultation with the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) and the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, and are being implemented in accordance with the permit issued under Cap. 552, Article 70(d) of the Development and Planning Act.

"As part of the regeneration works of the Marsaskala Promenade, Infrastructure Malta will rebuild the arches that form part of the promenade in the area known as tas-Siberja."