The Planning Authority on Friday issued an enforcement notice ordering the immediate removal of an unauthorised structure erected in front of a catering establishment at The Strand in Sliema, following complaints over the use of public space, pedestrian access and road safety.

Enforcement notice EC/122/26 requires those responsible to remove the structure, with the authority warning that it will take further enforcement action if the notice is not complied with without delay, the PA said in a statement.

It added it had received a number of complaints while the structure was being erected, including representations from the Sliema Local Council.

It said the complaints raised concerns about the use of public space, pedestrian accessibility and road safety, adding that it acted immediately and began enforcement proceedings without delay.

The development had prompted the criticism from the Sliema Residents Association, which had called on the authorities to intervene over what is described as an apparent takeover of public land by a new restaurant at the corner of Annunciation Street at The Strand.

The association said an awning had been installed across the width of the pavement and alleged that workers had cemented paving stones extending onto the road.

It described the works as an alleged unauthorised alteration to the street alignment and raised concerns that the awning created a visual obstruction and a potential safety hazard for motorists and pedestrians.

The association also said the development reduced the amount of pavement space available to the public.

Dr Claire Bonello had filed an enforcement request with the PA on behalf of the Sliema Local Council, according to the association, which at the time said it had not received a response.

Moviment Graffitti had also warned of direct action if what it described as an illegal setup was not removed.

The group had alleged that developer Carlos Stivala had installed a large tent on the pavement and an area reserved for parking without a permit, as well as placing paving, tabl es and chairs outside the establishment.

Graffitti said the setup obstructed pedestrians and created a danger because of its position on a corner.

It had given Stivala until Friday, 9 October to remove the tent, warning that it would otherwise take "direct action" to stop what it described as the "theft" of public land.

The Planning Authority said it remained committed to safeguarding the public interest, addressing illegal development and ensuring that enforcement action was pursued effectively.

It warned that, should those responsible fail to comply with the enforcement notice, it would take all necessary action within its remit to ensure compliance.