controversial expansion of Pembroke Hamilton Club at Stadium Lane in Warwick.

The Board said the million-dollar development failed to protect the environmental and visual values of surrounding undeveloped land; protect areas of ecological importance; maintain visual and physical breaks between areas of development; protect open spaces; and reserve land for future need.

The Board also ruled PHC's application was in conflict with the 1992 Development Plan, saying the proposal will fail to maintain undeveloped land in an open state and will fail to control further development in a way which will protect and enhance the environmental quality of the site and its environs.

Earlier this year PHC provoked a chorus of protests from nearby Warwick residents and the Bermuda National Trust with a proposal to turn the club into a family recreational centre.

The plan, estimated to run into millions of dollars included: A 7,141 square foot multi-purpose room for gym activities, changing rooms, and seating up to 2,000 spectators; A 2,174 square foot fitness centre with video games for children; Space for administration offices, meeting rooms, and an upper-level library; and A landscaped park to meet outdoor recreational needs of younger club members and area residents.

Residents and the National Trust objected, arguing the expansion was unnecessary and did not comply with Green Space and Open Space zoning.

PHC's agent, Erwin Adderley, yesterday told The Royal Gazette he could not say with certainty whether his client will appeal the decision, though he suspected they would.

"We obviously were aware there were difficulties with the plan,'' he said.

"We were and still are of the opinion the proposal was in the best interests of the community.''