Editorial : accessible and safe open public areas

Abstract

The occupation of public space by private interests has mushroomed in Malta and Gozo. This undesirable development is to a large extent the result of the so-called business-friendly governance, exacerbated by lack of enforcement of existing laws and regulations, including those covered by the Policy and Standards for Outdoor Catering Areas on Public Open Space. The Marsalforn and Xlendi seafronts in Gozo are cases in point. This is creating the impression that there is a tacit and undeclared stratagem of putting business interests before those of the common citizen – business friendliness gone too far.