Initial steps to develop Hamilton’s waterfront should focus on landscaping the area between the ferry terminal and the docks, according to architects Linberg and Simmons.

The firm, which won an open design competition launched by Sir John Swan to regenerate the waterfront, believes the landscaping project would spark opportunities for local businesses and cost $12 to $15 million.

The original $156-million proposal, which included a hotel and casino in the HSBC building at Albuoy’s Point, a new ferry terminal, a market plaza, park, pier and marina, have laid dormant since they were unveiled 12 years ago.

But Sjur Linberg, a partner at Linberg and Simmons, told The Royal Gazette he hoped the success of the recent Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series would reopen the dialogue on the waterfront.

“The America’s Cup could be a great catalyst to get things going,” he said.

“What makes Hamilton Harbour so unique is the relationship between the city and the harbour. That’s what makes it an iconic place.

“It is clear that when you do something spectacular, people will use the waterfront space. The waterfront holds a lot of promise.”

Mr Linberg believes that Bermuda’s own products could be showcased along the waterfront in a marketplace for artisans, fisherman and members of the food and beverage industry.

He said: “The landscape portion, including creating the waterfront promenade, with a tourist information centre and public restrooms and marketplace structure is estimated to cost $12 to $15 million.

“‘The people’s park’ which Sir John was talking about is very achievable without enormous cost.

“The project, in my mind, is the most important project we can undertake to ensure Bermuda’s future success as a tourist destination and international business centre. A vibrant city would complement other businesses. The bigger things can happen in good time.”

Sir John told The Royal Gazette that while a waterfront development itself would bring incremental improvements to the city, the casinos must be the “main financial engine”.

But he raised concerns that the Gaming Act could limit the development potential of Hamilton’s waterfront and cause further divide within Hamilton itself.

“The legislation tells a story,” Sir John said

“If it’s just for the almighty dollar, then we will pay the price for many years to come.”

“For the first time we have a chance to say, this is ours. It would totally transform the waterfront.”

“We need a showpiece that tells the world we are back in business.”

“It would be the beginning of a new phase of Bermuda, to show where Bermuda should be heading.”