Roadwork Delays: Challenges and Solutions

Roadworks in Malta have become a source of frustration for residents, shopkeepers, and commuters alike. While infrastructure development is vital, the lack of coordination between government entities has led to significant delays, causing widespread dissatisfaction. In this article, we explore the challenges faced by contractors, the impact on businesses, and what government agencies are doing to address these issues.

The Contractors' Perspective:

Malta Developers Association (MDA) President Michael Stivala has shed light on the critical issues plaguing contractors involved in roadworks. According to Stivala, inefficient decision-making processes within government entities have turned roadwork projects into a “decision-making nightmare.” Contractors find themselves mired in bureaucracy, hindering their progress and exacerbating delays. This inefficiency is leaving residents and shop owners exasperated as they witness works dragging on without resolution.

Stivala also highlighted the problem of delayed payments, which can extend over months. Such delays create cash flow problems for contractors, further compounding the issues they face. Moreover, a shortage of essential workers like surveyors and architects only exacerbates the challenges, causing ripple effects throughout the industry.

Impact on Residents and Businesses:

The consequences of these delays are felt acutely by residents and businesses. Prolonged road closures disrupt daily life, making commutes a nightmare and causing frustration for those living in affected areas. However, the impact on businesses is even more significant.

One notable example is the Mosta restaurant, Ta’ Marija, which recently filed a judicial protest against various government entities, including the Mosta local Council, Infrastructure Malta, Transport Malta, Carmel Vella Ltd, and the Malta Tourism Authority. Ta’ Marija claims that it is losing between €3,000 and €5,000 per week due to roadworks that have been ongoing for months along Constitution Street. This situation highlights the financial strain placed on businesses, which are struggling to stay afloat amidst the disruptions.

Chamber of SMEs' Concerns:

Recognizing the plight of businesses, the Chamber of SMEs has voiced its concerns. Director General Abigail Mamo emphasized the need for authorities to consider the impact on businesses before commencing roadworks. While disruptions during such projects are expected, Malta’s standards for execution and coordination fall behind, according to Mamo.

Mamo applauded Transport Malta’s efforts to establish basic standards and make the stipulated time for roadwork completion public. However, she also criticized the tardiness in implementing such standards and called for the blacklisting of low-quality contractors, a measure she believes should have been in place long ago.

The Chamber of SMEs has also been actively engaging with businesses suffering due to infrastructural works along the Kalkara seafront, indicating its commitment to addressing the concerns of affected entrepreneurs.

Infrastructure Malta's Response:

In response to these grievances, Ivan Falzon, CEO of Infrastructure Malta, acknowledged the issues but highlighted that “the majority” of roadworks are completed within the stipulated time and budget. Infrastructure Malta has been proactive in communicating with affected businesses, working to minimize disruptions.

Falzon acknowledged that there is room for improvement in terms of communication and coordination between government agencies. Recognizing the importance of continuous improvement, he expressed a commitment to making the process more efficient and less disruptive for all stakeholders.

Conclusion:

While roadworks are essential for infrastructure development, the lack of coordination between government entities has led to significant delays, impacting residents, shopkeepers, and businesses alike. Contractors face challenges in decision-making, delayed payments, and a shortage of essential workers, while businesses suffer financial losses due to prolonged disruptions. The Chamber of SMEs has called for improved standards, and Infrastructure Malta has acknowledged the need for better communication and coordination.

FAQs:

What is causing delays in roadworks in Malta?
Delays in roadworks in Malta are primarily attributed to inefficient decision-making processes within government entities, delayed payments to contractors, and a shortage of essential workers like surveyors and architects.

How are businesses affected by roadworks?
Businesses in the vicinity of roadworks experience financial losses due to a decrease in customers and disruptions to their operations. Some businesses have reported significant losses, leading to legal action against responsible government entities.

What steps are being taken to address these issues?
The Chamber of SMEs has called for the establishment of basic standards for roadwork execution and the blacklisting of low-quality contractors. Infrastructure Malta is working on improving communication and coordination between government agencies to minimize disruptions and delays.

Is there any acknowledgment of the problems by government agencies?
Yes, Ivan Falzon, CEO of Infrastructure Malta, has acknowledged the issues and expressed a commitment to continuous improvement in communication and coordination between government agencies.

How are residents affected by roadwork delays?
Residents face daily inconveniences, including longer commutes and disruptions to their daily lives. Prolonged road closures and ongoing works can lead to frustration and reduced quality of life for those living in affected areas.