A coalition of 18 residents’ associations and environmental groups has called for immediate action after Piccolo Padre restaurant reportedly placed its tables and chairs back on public land, less than a week after enforcement action by the Planning Authority.In a joint statement issued today, the groups accused authorities of turning a blind eye to what they described as the continued illegal occupation of public space.According to the organisations, the Planning Authority’s recent enforcement action only addressed the restaurant’s awning, leaving other allegedly unauthorised modifications to the pavement and road surface untouched.The groups also criticised the Lands Authority, claiming it has yet to demonstrate that any enforcement action has been taken over the occupation of public property without the necessary legal procedures.They are now demanding the immediate removal of all tables, chairs, furniture and other additions to the pavement and street.But their concerns go beyond one restaurant.The 18 organisations argued that outdoor catering establishments across Malta are increasingly taking over pavements, seaside walkways and residential areas, often leaving pedestrians struggling to navigate public spaces.They highlighted how tables, chairs, kiosks and other structures can obstruct walkways, particularly affecting people using wheelchairs and pushchairs.The groups also raised concerns about noise pollution, claiming residents are being forced to endure constant chatter and loud music from catering establishments.They further criticised the Planning Authority for allegedly approving outdoor catering areas that go against its own policies, which they said restrict such developments on public land to designated spaces such as squares, gardens, promenades and belvederes.According to the organisations, public spaces are increasingly being transformed into extensions of restaurants and cafés, with covered structures taking over areas previously enjoyed by the public.They also raised concerns about trees allegedly being removed or damaged to make way for additional outdoor seating.The coalition is calling for stricter enforcement of existing regulations and insists that any future application for outdoor dining outside Piccolo Padre should be assessed in accordance with the relevant laws and policies.The statement was endorsed by 18 organisations, including Moviment Graffitti, Flimkien għal Ambjent Aħjar, the Sliema Residents Association, Residenti Beltin and several other residents’ groups across Malta.The groups stressed that residents have a right to enjoy their homes peacefully and access public spaces without unnecessary obstructions.Do you think restaurants are taking up too much public space in Malta?•