Naxxar Council: No Green Light for 5 AM Works at Collapse Site

Early morning commuters in Naxxar were left bewildered last week as heavy machinery rumbled to life at the site of the recent building collapse, kicking off work at an ungodly hour. But the local council insists it never gave the go-ahead for such earliness.

Sunrise Surprise

Residents and passersby were taken aback when, just after sunrise on Tuesday, construction vehicles began their daily grind at the site on Triq il-Kbira, Naxxar. The noise pollution, they complained, was disrupting their morning routines and disturbing their peace.

“I’m a light sleeper, and the noise woke me up at 4:30 AM,” grumbled Joe Xuereb, a long-time Naxxar resident. “I understand they need to work, but 5 AM is just too early.”

Council: Not Our Call

The Naxxar Local Council has been quick to distance itself from the early start times. “We were as surprised as the residents,” Council Secretary Joseph Attard told Hot Malta. “We never agreed to such early works. Our permit only allows for work between 7 AM and 5 PM on weekdays.”

Attard explained that the council had granted a permit for the demolition and rebuilding of the collapsed structure, but the working hours were clearly specified. “We’re looking into this matter and will take appropriate action,” he promised.

Developer: Miscommunication or Mischief?

Hot Malta reached out to the developer, Malta-based DB Group, for comment. A spokesperson acknowledged the complaints but attributed the early starts to a “misunderstanding.” They assured us that the issue would be rectified immediately.

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused,” the spokesperson said. “We’re committed to respecting the community and the council’s regulations. We’ll ensure that work resumes at the permitted hours.”

When asked about the possibility of retribution for the early starts, the council’s Attard remained diplomatic. “We’re not interested in punishments. We just want the work to proceed smoothly and peacefully, with the least disruption to our residents.”

With the council and the developer now on the same page, Naxxar residents can expect a quieter morning from now on. The site is expected to remain active for the next few months as the rebuilding process continues.

Xuereb, the early riser, is optimistic. “I’m glad the council is on top of this. Now, maybe I can enjoy my morning coffee in peace.”