priority.

Works and Engineering Minister C. V. (Jim) Woolridge said the project would go to the top of the list when it came to finding cash.

He said the new toilets and amenities were a must because of the dire state of the existing block -- and following a summer of a record number of visitors at the popular south-side beach.

It is understood up to 7,000 people a day have been at the beach during the peak cruise ship season -- putting a heavy burden on antiquated facilities. So much so, that a Portaloo trailer was brought in to ease the burden.

At present Works and Engineering architects are preparing designs and once permission is granted the plan will have to go to tender before work can start.

The exact responsibility for funding may fall between the Works and Engineering department and the Parks Ministry, but Mr. Woolridge said they would not let any political grey areas stand in the way.

Mr Woolridge said: "It has got to be done. I am not prepared to split hairs and if needs be we will put our shoulders to the wheel to ensure it is finished.'' The new design will more than likely eliminate much of the changing areas, which today's tourist does not require and use the space to provide more toilets.

It will also be sympathetic to the environment and blend in with its surroundings.

Chief Engineer Dave Andrews said the work would take precedence but added that it had to be costed before any bid for funding could be made.

He added that there would be several months of building work through the winter, with the aim of having the facilities open for the 1999 season.

Parks director Bill Cook is confident the new block will be ready and will see an end to the often-complained of conditions at Horseshore Bay.

HEALTH HTH