The One Bermuda Alliance pledged to restore the St George’s Golf Course while creating temporary jobs for Bermudians.

According to the Throne Speech, the work programme will bring the course back up to a level where it can be maintained, providing an ongoing benefit for the east end.

Government also pledged that the Department of Parks will continue its work renovating Government-owned fortifications in the east, which are considered an integral part of St George’s World Heritage Site designation.

This year the department will focus on Alexandra Battery, Gates Fort and the Ferry Reach Martello tower.

St George’s Mayor Garth Rothwell said both announcements were welcome news for the town, and he is hopeful that a mention of improved transportation in the same speech could mean greater ferry service to the East End.

“I think all these elements will help with tourism in St George’s,” he said. “We were hoping for an announcement of improved ferry service to the town, and hopefully the announcement of better public transportation will mean extra ferries, particularly in the evening, the morning and on Sundays.”

Ronnie Viera, president of the Chamber of Commerce, expressed similar sentiments.

“It is good to see that there is a commitment to review the current public transportation system with a view to improving the way in which visitors, in particular, travel around the island which we hope will assist St George’s businesses specifically,” he said.

“Additionally, efforts to revive the old forts and the St George’s Golf course will be helpful to the town.”