Naxxar Mayor Calls for Stronger Enforcement Against Coastal Caravan Encroachment

Naxxar Mayor Christopher Deguara has urged authorities to step up enforcement at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, alleging that some caravan owners are occupying public land with furniture and limiting coastal access. He noted caravans without license plates and reports of rentals. Regulations introduced in 2023 require permits and a minimum daily fee of €5 for coastal parking from June to September, but Deguara said the council lacks enforcement authority. A petition by resident Zach Demarco, calling for patrols, fines, and removal of unauthorized vehicles, has gathered over 1,500 signatures in a week.

Naxxar mayor Christopher Deguara urged police and LESA to step up enforcement against caravans occupying public land at Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq coast, citing furniture placement and unauthorized rentals. A petition supporting stricter rules gained over 1,500 signatures. Regulations introduced in 2023 require caravan owners to pay €5 per day and obtain local council approval between June and September, but the mayor noted the council lacks authority to approve or reject permits.

The Naxxar Local Council has urged authorities to intensify enforcement against caravans occupying public land in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, arguing that the situation restricts public access to coastal areas. Mayor Christopher Deguara stated that while the council supports responsible caravan owners, it cannot ignore practices negatively affecting residents' use of the coastline. The council previously submitted two bye-laws to designate parking areas for caravans, but they were rejected without valid explanations, despite similar regulations in Mellieħa and Marsaskala. Deguara noted that permits bearing the council's logo are issued automatically by the government without council involvement, and called for the government to handle permit issuance. Concerns were also raised about caravans occupying spaces for extended periods, missing number plates, and online rentals for profit.