Economic empowerment zones could be in store for St. George's and Sandys following research aimed at determining if they are needed.

The Economic Empowerment Zones Agency (EEZA) announced the launch of surveys in the east and west of the Island.

It will be conducted by Research Innovations and cover business owners as well as residents of both areas.

EEZA director Erica Smith said: "The research that will take place in the West and East ends of the Island is similar to what was conducted for us in the North East Hamilton area in 2006 and is an essential component of effective planning and decision-making to assist us in creating policies specific to those locations.

"Additionally, the follow-up research in the North East Hamilton EEZ will help us to determine if the policies we currently have in place are successful and if we need to develop additional policies for our current stakeholders."

Economic empowerment zones (EEZ) are designated areas where special plans or programmes are implemented to relieve hardship or economic disadvantage. They are also designed to assist disadvantaged persons or groups to achieve, or attempt to achieve, equal opportunity.

The establishment of the Island's first EEZ in North East Hamilton under the Economic Development Act 1968 allowed those stakeholders to take advantage of concessions and incentives available under the Act.

Research will determine what issues are relevant in St. George's and Sandys to these areas of Bermuda and what concessions and incentives are needed to help these communities reach their full potential by becoming EEZ's.

Survey work will take place from June 22 to July 10 with the businesses completed first.

The EEZA will also be conducting follow-up research with businesses in North Hamilton to develop additional policies and address the needs of stakeholders.

Survey work in Hamilton will start July 6 until August 7.

For further information on any of the surveys please contact Ms Smith ersmith@gov.bm or 296-4EEZ (339).