Illegal Marsalforn concrete works by Gozo Ministry being removed, PA issues enforcement order

The Planning Authority has ordered the removal of an illegally constructed concrete path on the rocky foreshore in Marsalforn that was laid by Gozo Ministry workers.

The removal works are being carried out this morning.

In the photos, cement can be seen to have been poured on the coastal rocks of Marsalforn (Photo: Facebook)

In a statement, the PA said: "As soon as the Planning Authority was informed of the situation in Marsalforn, its enforcement officers took immediate action, and restoration work at the site began shortly after."

The authority added that it would continue to monitor the works closely.

The pathway was constructed by the Gozo Ministry, however, Permanent Secretary Mario Borg said on Facebook that he had not authorised such works to take place.

"This work was done without my authorisation and without my knowledge. As the person responsible for the operational and administrative functions of the Gozo Ministry, I will do my all to ensure that if there are any illegalities, these are removed and not repeated," Borg wrote.

No explanation was given as to why workers poured concrete on the rocky foreshore.

Gozo minister Clint Camilleri had earlier said he was informed of works carried out in Marsalforn, adding that if they were not authorised, they would have to be removed.

The issue was initially flagged by the Coalition for Gozo, made up of Wirt Għawdex, Din l-Art Ħelwa Għawdex and Għawdix, which sent questions to the Planning Authority and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) over the works.

The coalition said: "We are demanding answers to our questions about this atrocity.

Meanwhile, Opposition Gozo spokesperson Frank Anthony Tabone rdemanded accountability for the illegal works, asking who had authorised them, what permits were issued and what precautions were taken during the removal operation to avoid further damage to the area.