Building agency fined Naxxar construction site seven times after 110 inspections
BCA declares nearby buildings are safe
The Building and Construction Agency (BCA) issued seven fines and contraventions related to the Naxxar multi-storey construction site whose foundations gave way on Thursday, prompting fears of a collapse, as it declared nearby buildings safe for residents to return to.
The agency said it had also issued 71 written instructions regarding construction works at the sprawling site on Triq il-Milizzja corner with Triq is-Seneskalk, based on reports by the public and its own inspections. It did not specify the period of time over which it issued the fines.
“Following the findings provided by Dr Adrian Mifsud, Geotechnical Engineer engaged as an independent expert by the Authority, the BCA confirmed that the buildings situated outside the construction site are safe. An inspection was also carried out on the site where construction work is taking place, together with Professor Alex Torpiano, an expert engaged by the developer. Consequently, the families who had been evacuated as a precautionary measure may return to their homes,” the BCA wrote on Facebook.
The BCA said 13 families had been evacuated “as a precautionary measure.” It said one apartment located on the site, which was being used as a residence, is still not safe to return to.
Earlier on Friday, residents on site asked for a written declaration of the safety of the apartment block. They also asked for other assurances, including another assessment of the site two months from now.
The independent architect hired by the BCA obliged and told residents that he would send a declaration in the coming days.
Some residents also expressed frustration at the lack of official communication from the authorities. One resident said he found out about the issue through the Times of Malta and was evacuated shortly after.
The BCA said the site remains under investigation.