dock.

The Developments Application Board approved the BAMZ application to build a new dock, bigger than the regulation 16 feet long size usually insisted on for residential property.

But Planning director Brian Rowlinson said: "There is a discretion to approve docks of any size for commercial property.'' The DAB also considered two applications in connection with ACE and XL's plans to develop the eyesore Bermudiana Hotel site in Hamilton into corporate headquarters for the two insurance giants.

An application to divide the site into two lots for separate development by the two firms was approved.

But a report to the DAB said plans for the site must include "a comprehensive and integrated landscaping scheme for the entire five-acre site''.

The report added: "And such a scheme shall not incorporate permanent barriers, fences or walls to define the common boundary of the two hereby approved lots.'' A separate application to build an eight-foot high security fence around the site was withdrawn by Planning officials because the statutory 14 days notice had not finished. The application is likely to be considered next week.