in Hamilton Harbour.

Mr. Martin's application to build a new three bedroom single dwelling unit with a formal garden on Agar's Island was refused by the Development Applications Board.

The American computer and technology writer has received approval for other planning applications and had begun revamping the island which he purchased from the Cox family for what was understood to be several million dollars.

But the DAB said it was not satisfied that the design of the proposed building was sensitive to the Bermuda image or the Island's architectural traditions or the island's natural appearance.

In an advice note connected to its ruling, the DAB noted: "The Board wish to advise the applicant that this Island is considered to be important because of its natural appearance, amenity value and scenic qualities and to this end any future submission should be designed to be compatible with these qualities.'' Agar's Island is the site of Bermuda's first aquarium and of an underground gunpowder magazine built in 1870. Mr. Martin already has a home in Tucker's Town.

In other planning news, an application to turn 16 Pembroke timeshare units into residential units has been withdrawn.

The in principle application to the Planning Department was made by the Hamiltonian Hotel & Island Club on Robin Hood Drive.

A second application by the club to remove a retaining wall and stairs, build new retaining walls and stairs and construct a new parking layout was also withdrawn.

The Hamiltonian last hit the headlines when its director Harold Stavisky was convicted by a Boston court of embezzling $150,000 from investors.

Mr. Stavisky was given a two-year suspended sentence and fined $60,000 in 1994. He was later adjudged bankrupt in November, 1995, after failing to pay fees to Mello, Hollis, Jones & Martin but this was annulled when the legal bill was paid.

And businessman John Bluck has received in principle approval to refurbish and redevelop a pair of Front Street buildings.

Mr. Bluck requested permission to refurbish the two-storey Bluck's building at Number Four Front Street and redevelop the York House building adjoining it at Number Two Front Street.

In principle approval was given to the plans calling for an additional floor and a mezzanine level to be added creating a three storey office building.