stage of its multi-million dollar plan.

Bermuda Properties Limited has applied for final planning approval for its proposed development at Ship's Hill and Tucker's Point in Hamilton Parish which it feels will revitalise Marriott's Castle Harbour Resort.

The application is for a housing development comprising 13 detached two-storey houses with swimming pools and garages, 13 two-storey town houses, a communal pool, four tennis courts and a water storage tank.

In July, 1995, then Environment Minister Gerald Simons gave planning permission in principle to the $65 million plan to save Marriott's Castle Harbour Resort from closure.

The permission came after threats that the hotel would pull out of Bermuda if its million dollar losses dating back to 1986 continued. BPL general manager Peter Parker told The Royal Gazette that the new application for final approval was revised from original plans.

The primary changes were to the number of buildings the company was looking to build and some of their locations, he reported.

BPL wished to build 37 residential units on the site but is now applying for only 26 after receiving information in a recent environmental impact study and from local organisations including the National Trust.

The environmental impact study was a prerequisite of the group's final planning application. Two surveys were carried out to assess the impact of its proposed plans on the environmentally sensitive site.

Both the National Trust and Save Open Spaces have joined the Mid Ocean Club and individuals in objecting to the plans. They argue the development of Ship's Hill for luxury homes will harm the environment including caves under the hill.

However, BPL counteract that their plans will enhance the area, not endanger the caves and will give native plant species a chance to thrive. BPL has also applied to redevelop the golf course, building new holes and remodelling others. Other reported plans include a spa, health club, equestrian and carriage centres, a shopping village, a new golf club and practice range.