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Kurt Sansone
Do not be surprised if while strolling in one of the streets in St Paul’s Bay the pavement suddenly widens and then constricts again. It is not the latest aesthetic fad but a partial solution to a problem created by the smoking ban.
The St Paul’s Bay council has given the green light for establishments to widen the pavement in front of their premises so that patrons going outside to smoke would not be an inconvenience for passers-by.
Mayor Paul Bugeja confirmed that the council has unanimously agreed to approve applications made by various establishments for the widening of the pavement in front of their property. “Since the introduction of the smoking ban pavements in front of public establishments are being obstructed by smokers. To eliminate the inconvenience caused to people using the kerbs, the council has unanimously agreed to grant permissions to widen pavements,” Bugeja said.
He added that the work is being done in accordance with permits issued by MEPA and the Transport Authority and at the expense of who is making the application.
St Paul’s Bay council includes Bugibba and Qawra, two areas with a high concentration of entertainment establishments, restaurants and bars.
Ever since the introduction of the smoking ban residents living next door to restaurants and bars have had to endure smokers on their doorstep and cigarette butts littering the pavement. In October last year the smoking ban came into force for establishments larger than 60 square metres. On 1 April this year, the smoking ban will extend to all public places irrespective of size.
kurt@newsworksltd.com
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