Naxxar’s Construction Nightmare: Seven Fines in 110 Inspections

Imagine this: a construction site in the heart of Naxxar, a bustling town in Malta’s northern region, has been inspected 110 times in the past year. Now, picture this: out of these 110 visits, the site has been fined a staggering seven times. This isn’t a scene from a dystopian film, but a reality that has been unfolding right here on our island.

From Inspections to Fines: A Timeline

The story begins in early 2021 when the construction site, located on Triq l-Indipendenza, started its operations. Since then, the Building Regulation Office (BRO) has been conducting regular inspections, totaling 110 visits as of last month. While most inspections resulted in verbal warnings or no action, seven visits led to fines, amounting to thousands of euros.

The fines, issued under the Development Planning Act, range from €500 to €2,000, with the most common offenses including non-compliance with approved plans, failure to maintain a tidy site, and operating outside of permitted hours.

Neighbours’ Plight

News of the frequent fines has brought relief to the residents of Naxxar, who have been grappling with the construction site’s impact on their daily lives. “The noise, the dust, the traffic… it’s been a nightmare,” says Maria, a long-time resident of Triq l-Indipendenza. “We’re glad to see that the authorities are taking action, even if it’s taken them this long.”

Other residents have also voiced their concerns, with many taking to social media to share their experiences. “I’ve had to keep my windows closed all day, every day,” complains Joseph, another Naxxar resident. “I can’t wait for this to be over.”

BRO’s Response

When asked about the situation, a spokesperson for the BRO stated, “We are committed to ensuring that all construction sites in Malta adhere to the relevant regulations. The frequency of inspections and the subsequent fines reflect our dedication to maintaining high standards and protecting the interests of residents.”

The spokesperson also reminded the public that they can report any construction-related issues to the BRO’s hotline or online portal.

With the construction work ongoing and no signs of completion yet, Naxxar residents can only hope that the situation improves. The BRO’s continued vigilance and the site’s adherence to regulations are key to ensuring that the construction nightmare in Naxxar comes to an end soon.

As for the construction company, they have declined to comment on the matter, stating that they are cooperating fully with the BRO and are committed to resolving any outstanding issues.

In the meantime, Naxxar residents continue to bear the brunt of the construction work, their patience wearing thin. “We just want this to be over,” says Maria, summing up the sentiment of many in the town.