We are pleased to inform you that Infrastructure Malta are embarking on the final phase of the Central Link Junction Underpass Project which is the much needed embellishment of the approach to the Central Business District in front of the MFSA. During a meeting with the Foundation the major projects unit provided an overview of the landscaping which is going to take place using a mixture of plants and indigenous trees and shrubs. The CBDF recommended that further embellishment takes place along the bypass in the entrance leading to Triq in-Negozju, now that it has been decided that the northbound entrance be closed indefinitely. Infrastructure Malta agreed to do so in the coming weeks.
A familiarisation meeting was held with owners of the businesses in the automotive sector, primarily motor vehicle electricians, panel beaters, sprayers and mechanics. Paul Abela, President of the Chamber of SMEs was also present for the meeting, Carmelo Abela, Chief Executive Officer of the CBDF explained the various initiatives that have taken place over the years to upgrade and embellish the CBD environment. He also explained the PPP nature of the Foundation and the source of funding used by the CBDF. Paul Abela explained the role of the Chamber of SMEs within the Foundation and how it was instrumental in securing funding from Government on behalf of micro and small businesses. The CEO also provided an overview of the waste which was being collected on a daily basis, the need for each operator to make their own arrangements for collection and the need to keep the area where their business is situated as clean as possible.
From their end, the operators discussed the challenges which are facing their businesses, especially in relation to parking. They noted also that the closing of access to CBD from the bypass northbound was leading to an influx of traffic in their streets which at times leaded to traffic being obstructed during peak hours. Carmelo Abela stressed the supportive function of the Community Police and that these were always at hand when needed.
A number of cars which have been abandoned across the CBD have been earmarked to be removed, clearing the area from unnecessary eye sore and much needed car parking spaces. Following a meeting with the Police, it was agreed that after the statutory time period for the fixing of the yellow sticker elapsed, the abandoned cars will start to be removed to an enclosed area within the temporary car park at Triq l-Intornjatur. On the 23rd of May, the Police towed away 3 motor vehicles. After some days, the owner of one motor vehicle reclaimed the car after paying the towing and storage fees. The other 2 vehicles will be disposed of by the Police shortly. The removal of another 3/4 motor vehicles will be done shortly until all abandoned cars are cleared from the area. Our appeal is that these cars are removed from the streets by their respective owners.
