Work to install a sidewalk with palm trees and antique lighting in Flatts Village has been given a mixed welcome by the former chairman of Flatts Development Committee.

Works and Engineering staff have begun work to knock down a small wall in the village to install the bricked split level sidewalk, and are building new concrete bollards for boats to dock.

Visitors and residents will be able to relax on benches under the newly planted palm trees.

Former Flatts Development Committee chairman W.A. (Toppy) Cowen said he was happy part of the committee's vision for the village had been accepted, but was disappointed some parts of the blueprint were left out.

The committee had also called for paths off along the railway trail and around the village towards Shelly Bay, and sidewalks.

Other ideas included cobblestones for traffic calming, and closed circuit television cameras to trap speeding drivers, but Works and Engineering has not accepted these proposals.

Mr. Cowen told The Royal Gazette: "While it appears the Flatts Development Committee, which was quite active for approximately five years, has disbanded, we are pleased to see the fruits of our labours were not in vain as work is now underway with this village project.

"The dream of a place to relax and watch the world go by will tastefully include a bricked sidewalk, new lighting, improved docking facilities, palm trees and benches for our visitors and residents to enjoy. Truly, we are delighted the idea was not shelved.

"I welcome this to a degree, but would hope the other things can also be achieved. Whether this happens, remains to be seen."