The Department of Public Works has warned that the fractured cliffside at St Peter's Pool continues to pose a serious danger to the public, as it confirmed that access to the area was closed off again on Thursday morning.

In a statement issued following widespread concern over the condition of the cliff at Kalanka tal-Qadi in Delimara, the Department said several safety measures had already been taken, including the installation of warning signs and fencing around dangerous sections of the coast.

The Department explained that access to the area had originally been closed after part of the cliff collapsed, adding that the cliff face in this part of Delimara is unstable and presents a risk to public safety.

It also said that shortly after the site was sealed off, an individual claiming ownership of the land beneath the cliff-initiated court proceedings against the Department over the gate and fence installed in the area. The legal case is still ongoing.

Despite the pending court proceedings, the Department said it re-closed access to the site on Thursday through temporary hoarding because the broken section of cliff continues to endanger the public.

"The Department of Public Works will continue to take all necessary steps to protect the safety of the public in this area," the statement said.

The statement came after photos circulated widely on social media showing tourists and beachgoers sitting and sunbathing directly beneath the visibly cracked cliffside, apparently unaware of the danger above them.

Police had also moved to close off parts of the area after concern mounted over the large fissure in the rock formation overlooking the popular swimming spot.

Marsaxlokk Mayor Steven Grech had clarified that local authorities are playing this situation safe and will not risk any human lives amidst this visible geological fissure. He added that parts of the same cliff face had collapsed just last month.

A significant rock collapse was observed in late March last year.