Full advantage of the Old Town's archaeological and architectural importance was not being taken, St. George's Mayor the Wor. Henry Hayward declared at a public meeting this week.

Historic St. George's could become "a world heritage site'', he said. The Mayor made the statements in announcing the St. George's Preservation Authority, of which he is chairman, would be taking a greater role in the future development of St. George's.

He was hoping to boost membership and form an Authority foundation to raise money to look after and enhance St. George's historic buildings.

"This foundation could become one of the most important bodies on which the future of St. George's as the oldest continually settled town of English origins in the Americas would develop,'' he told the 100-strong meeting.

"The fact is that with its 17th Century buildings, many of which remain intact and in a restored condition, this community and Government cannot sit by and not take full advantage of the Town's importance as an archeological and architectural site in the history of the New World.'' The time had come for the Authority to not only act as a watchdog on renovations and developments, but also to provide the means to restore and enhance St. George's historic buildings, he said.

"By this I mean that an arm of the Authority could be legislated which would be in the form of a foundation which would be able to raise money and become a vehicle whereby funds could be raised to help and restore buildings within the preservation area.'' Mr. Hayward was hoping that in conjunction with the Bermuda National Trust, University of Florida and Bermuda Society of Architects, a programme would be implemented whereby architecture and archeological students would carry on categorising the town's historic buildings.

"This project could also include a dig of Bridge Street, which no doubt must contain a treasure of 17th Century items which were used to fill in the creek over which Bridge Street was built,'' he said.

He further noted that Authority members Mrs. Joyce D. Hall and Dr. Edward Harris had submitted a report with suggestions on how the organisation could develop.

Also at the meeting, Chamber of Commerce St. George's Division president Mr.

David Rowntree said meetings had been held with Transport Minister the Hon.

Maxwell Burgess on improving East End transportation for locals and visitors.

A mini-bus service to the airport and even as far as Flatt's Village was among suggestions, he said.

"He did not say no so I assume he is considering the proposals,'' Mr.

Rowntree said.