Driving into Ħondoq ir-Rummien, you’d be forgiven for doing a double-take. The usually bustling car park, a lifeline for local businesses and tourists alike, is now partly cordoned off with concrete blocks. The sudden change has left the village’s mayor, Paul Buttigieg, with more questions than answers.

The Scene at Ħondoq’s Car Park

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Malta, Ħondoq ir-Rummien is a hidden gem. Its crystal-clear waters and picturesque views make it a magnet for locals and tourists. But the recent addition of concrete blocks in the main car park has cast a shadow over the village’s charm.

Now, only half of the car park is accessible. The other half, once a hive of activity, is now a maze of concrete blocks, leaving many visitors scratching their heads and businesses feeling the pinch.

Mayor’s Concerns

Mayor Buttigieg has been vocal about the unexpected changes. “We were never informed about this,” he says, his voice echoing in the empty half of the car park. “We only found out when the blocks were already in place.”

His concerns are twofold. First, the reduced parking space is driving away visitors, hurting local businesses. Second, the lack of consultation has left the local council feeling sidelined.

The Authorities’ Stance

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has confirmed that the changes were made to protect the coastline from erosion. However, they admit that communication could have been better.

MEPA’s spokesperson stated, “We understand the mayor’s concerns. We should have engaged with the local council earlier. We’re committed to protecting Ħondoq’s environment while also considering the needs of its residents and visitors.”

Mayor Buttigieg is calling for a meeting with MEPA to find a solution that balances environmental protection with the village’s needs. “We’re not against protecting Ħondoq,” he says, “but we need to find a way that works for everyone.”

In the meantime, Ħondoq’s businesses are feeling the pinch. “We’ve seen a drop in customers,” says Mario Xuereb, owner of the popular Il-Kanċaluni restaurant. “We just hope this gets resolved soon.”