A series of meetings has been held with fishermen over the creation of a fisheries development centre at the West End specialising in large oceanic fish.

Originally planned for Marginal Wharf in St David’s, the proposed $1.5 million facility is expected to be developed at the opposite end of the island where most of the target fish species, such as tuna, are brought ashore.

Development of the centre is among 31 projects in the island’s economic recovery plan.

A government spokeswoman said on Friday that commercial fishing was one of Bermuda’s oldest industries and integral to the island’s culture.

Work is continuing through the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Fishermen’s Association of Bermuda.

The facility is expected to provide industry services including wholesale, retail and export.

The proposal came under fire over the summer from Move Bermuda, a pressure group traditionally allied with the Progressive Labour Party Government.

The spokeswoman said that updates are expected next year.

Private meetings have been held with fishermen around the island, with a third meeting for the central parishes last week at the Spanish Point Boat Club in Pembroke.