DOCKYARD needs a "rebirth" if it is to remain as a viable attraction for cruise visitors, Transport Minister Ewart Brown believes.

And, he says, such changes could take place as early as next year.

"It's dead and we need a wider plan to inject energy and excitement into Dockyard," he said. "When a boat comes into Dockyard, it should run into life and excitement.

"Visitors want to get off a boat and experience life. At the moment, Dockyard is not a big favourite. But we're working on it and I think (when we're done) it will become as exciting as the other two ports."

The West End Development Corporation (Wedco) this week announced plans to revitalise Dockyard and its surrounding islands.

"It is all about critical mass," Wedco manager Lloyd Telford told The Royal Gazette. "We are looking to create an additional five or six communities here, with all the amenities that go with that as part of making Dockyard a more attractive environment."

The area suffered millions of dollars worth of damage both to the foreshore at Boaz Village and the north arm of the original sea wall in Dockyard as a result of Hurricane Fabian last month.

According to Mr. Telford, as the Government quango goes about repairs, it hopes to incorporate some of its long-term plans for the area - 250 extra homes in the heart of Dockyard, and a pensioners' community; at Boaz Village, a near-sea level boardwalk with fishing sites along the front and possibly one or two retail outlets and, in conjunction with Marine & Ports, a ferry terminal on Boaz Island.

A second cruise ship berth also falls into Wedco's long-term plans - however, that would depend on Government's go-ahead, Mr. Telford said.

"It could happen," said Dr. Brown yesterday. "If what they say makes sense, we will work to make it happen. At the moment, we're in our early stages of talking about port infrastructure with a focus on Dockyard. What's more important, is a rebirth of Dockyard itself. It is truly low-key, to be kind about it."

The Minister said that visiting ships often complained about the lack of entertainment available at the West End, with many passengers arriving and heading straight for the livelier ports of Hamilton or St. George's.

"St. George's has its town, it has ambiance, it has culture. Dockyard has an old prison and some stores - which are lovely, but not immediately visible. We're hoping to get Dockyard straightened out by 2004."