MEPA targets illegal Birzebbuga scrapyard

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) has moved in to continue removing an extensive illegal scrapyard, in an ODZ area known as Ix-Xerriek, limits of Birzebbuga, which last week was the cause of a large fire incident in the area.

Last year, the Authority at the expense of the contravenors, had started to remove tons of illegally dumped material from a number of agricultural fields that over the years had been turned into an illegal scrapyard. The direct action had been cut short after the Authority was notified to stop its direct action operations following a mandate that was presented to the Courts by the contravenors’ lawyer.

Subsequently, the contravenors requested MEPA to give them a grace period for them to remove all the illegalities. MEPA had acceded to this request on condition that the site achieved removal targets over a specific timeframe.

Although initially some progress could be noted on site, unfortunately, less than 10% of the agreed target was reached.  In these circumstances, MEPA has reviewed the situation and again initiated direct action at this site to remove the illegal scrapyard without further delay. The dumped material includes, amongst others, large quantities of scrapped cars, trucks, white goods and tyres.

MEPA’s Enforcement Directorate are being assisted by members of the Administrative Law Enforcement Section.

“In general, MEPA seeks to reach agreements with contravenors so they remove the illegal developments themselves prior to direct action being taken by MEPA, at their expense,” the Authority said. 

“MEPA is re-evaluating the agreements reached with illegal scrapyard operators to ensure that such agreements are strictly adhered to.  In default, MEPA will proceed with direct actions on illegal scrapyards in the coming months.”