Developers of a proposed hotel and marina project in St George’s met with East End residents this week to explain their vision and garner feedback.Jeremy Spencer of developer Leading Edge Limited said that once approved, the 125-berth marina on Ordnance Island could be completed in 18 months, with the hotel construction starting after the marina is complete.“We had hoped to have approval by August 1 this year,” he said. “That’s a target we would still like to hit, but that could be difficult at this stage.”He explained that there would be at least a six-month gap between the projects because an archeological dig would take place on the hotel site before construction begins.While the site for the proposed 60-key boutique hotel is currently a parking lot, there used to be a slaughterhouse there.Asked about financing for the project, Mr Spencer said: “We have had a serious offer, but that’s on hold right now. We got the full financial backing offered to us, and we have several other interested parties.”Conceptual plans for the project were revealed in October, and since then the developers have carried out “extensive research and studies” into the project’s viability.On Wednesday, the Corporation hosted a public meeting at Pennos Wharf to gain feedback on the project, and determine if the people of St George’s support the proposal in principle.More than 100 people attended the crowded meeting, including Education Minister Dame Jennifer Smith and Opposition Leader Kim Swan, both of whom represent St George’s in the House of Assembly.The audience heard that along with a restaurant and 60 rooms, the developers said the proposed hotel would include 34 car parking spaces and 60 cycle spaces in an underground parking lot, which the public would have access to.While several members of the public expressed concern about the possibility of damage caused by waves and storm surge during storms, Mr Spencer said that the only area at risk would be the parking area, and any vehicles would be removed in advance of the storm.Mark Soares of Bermuda Yacht Services said that the proposed marina would not only serve around 80 percent local boats, but also serve as a breakwater, reducing the amount of wave damage to the town during storms.Along with bathroom and shower amenities, the marina could also include a bar and restaurant that could serve both visiting sailors and locals.Expressing his own support, St George’s Mayor Kenneth Bascome said the hotel is one of several efforts by the Corporation to help revitalise the town, which has been hard hit by the recession.Along with the proposed hotel and marina project, he said the Corporation has been working to re-open the St George’s Golf Course on a temporary basis and increase policing in the community.He told entrepreneurs to invest in St George’s now while space is available, because when new projects like the boutique hotel are up and running, space will be difficult to get.“Here is an opportunity for not only existing businesses, but for entrepreneurs to get in the mix, and I’m telling you, you want to get in the mix now,” he said. “When this goes ahead, all those people who left with the cruise ships will be back and you will never get in.”Useful website: georgehotelmarina.com