Naxxar Council Denies 5 AM Works at Collapse Site

In the quiet hours before dawn, the sound of heavy machinery grinding to life has become an unwelcome symphony for residents of Naxxar’s Triq il-Kbira. The source? The site of last year’s partial collapse of a historic building, now a constant reminder of the town’s fragility and the ongoing debate over its preservation. But according to Naxxar Local Council, the early morning works are not happening with their consent.

Residents have been complaining about the early morning works, which they claim start as early as 5 AM. The noise, they say, is disrupting their sleep and causing distress, especially with schools and offices closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. “It’s like they’re trying to get away with something by starting so early,” says Maria, a long-time resident who wished to remain anonymous. “We’re all stuck at home, and the noise is unbearable.”

However, Naxxar Local Council has refuted these claims, stating that they have not agreed to any works starting at 5 AM. “We are as frustrated as the residents,” says Mayor Doris Vella. “We have not given permission for any works to start before 7 AM. We are looking into this matter and will take appropriate action.”

The building that collapsed last year was a protected structure, which means any works on it require special permits. The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has confirmed that they have issued permits for the site’s stabilization and eventual restoration, but these permits do not allow for works to start before 7 AM.

“We are aware of the residents’ complaints and are investigating the matter,” says a spokesperson for MEPA. “We will take action if we find that the permits are being breached.”

Meanwhile, the owners of the collapsed building have remained tight-lipped about the situation. Repeated attempts by Hot Malta to contact them for comment were unsuccessful.

As the investigation into the early morning works continues, residents are calling for more transparency and stricter enforcement of permits. “We understand that the building needs to be restored, but not at the expense of our peace and quiet,” says Maria. “We just want to know what’s going on and who’s responsible.”

Mayor Vella echoes this sentiment, stating, “We will continue to push for transparency and stricter enforcement. Our residents deserve to know what’s happening in their town, and they deserve to have their peace and quiet respected.”