Shadow Environment Minister Cole Simons called for Government to reveal its business plan on the hotel/housing development on the former Golden Hind site in Warwick.

During Friday night's Motion to Adjourn in the House of Assembly, Mr. Simons made several attempts to ask questions about the Grand Atlantic Resort project — a 125-unit affordable housing complex and $80 million hotel.

However, each time he was shouted down by Premier Ewart Brown, who insisted Mr. Simons instead try to get answers by tabling Parliamentary Questions. When Speaker Stanley Lowe agreed with Dr. Brown's suggestion, Mr. Simons told the House: "But they don't answer."

Mr. Simons said the people of Bermuda would own the hotel when it's finished, but Health Minister Walter Roban argued the project is a partnership between Bermuda Housing Corporation and the private developer.

Dr. Brown added: "That property is not owned by Government. A private citizen owns that property and he can have a developer come in from Egypt if he wishes."

Mr. Simons responded: "I would suggest that the Government bring a business plan to this House to advise how they are going to invest."

And responding to suggestions he was speaking on behalf of others in the United Bermuda Party, he continued: "Those days are over. I can think on my own two feet."

Earlier this month, Dr. Brown announced work was set to start on the housing aspect of the scheme, partly financed by Butterfield Bank. Developer Larry Swenson has said the $150 million project is fully financed. The hotel is expected to cost $80 million with the remainder spent on the housing development.

The company was granted a Special Development Order to build the residential component, which includes 30 three-bedroom units and 95 two-bedroom condos, as well as the tourism portion, which includes a 100-room hotel and 20 fractional units. It will sit on 13-acres of prime oceanfront property overlooking the South Shore.