Architects have raised concerns with Government about a current staff shortage for top jobs at the Planning Department.

The Institute of Bermuda Architects recently sent a letter to Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary Brian Rowlinson asking that the two bodies "work together'' in dealing with the problem.

Institute past president Colin Campbell said: "We have had some anxiety that the key positions in the Department were vacant and hadn't been filled.

"The Permanent Secretary said he was well aware of the problem and in the process of dealing with it, so our concerns really came after the fact.'' He continued: "Mr. Rowlinson explained the succession plan there had suffered from the recent resignation of key players and that they were having difficulty in finding the right candidates for the jobs.'' Mr. Campbell said he gave credit to those people working in the Department and expressed optimism that the problem would be solved soon.

Asked if he felt a sudden rise in construction contracts could mean problems, Mr. Campbell said: "If that did happen, I fear the Department would be stressed.'' One experienced architect, who asked not to be named, said he felt the problem constituted a "meltdown'' in the Planning Department.

"They've lost so many people and planning applications are being sat on. It's a disaster.'' He said no-one had officially taken the post of Director of Planning since Mr.

Rowlinson was made Permanent Secretary.

"Aideen Ratteray-Pryse was being groomed for the job but she left, and so did former Head of Building Control Brett Forgesson.'' The architect said he thought there had recently been some "bad decisions'' made over planning matters and said: "They have some good young people there but there is just no leadership. Things are slowing down and it's a shame to see a Department that was looking good not getting any assistance.'' Acting Director of Planning Rudolph Hollis responded: "I definitely don't agree that there is a lack of leadership in the Department. I don't know what he means by saying that.'' He said Government's Personnel Services was currently conducting interviews and considering applicants for the vacant posts.