Legislation paving the way for a new marina to be built in St George’s will be tabled in the new year, according to Michael Fahy, the Minister for the Municipalities.

The announcement was officially made at the weekend as Sen Fahy turned on the Christmas lights in the East End.

He also confirmed that the Governor, George Fergusson, had given permission for the “Queen’s Bottom” or seabed — that is designated Crown land — to be used as part of the development.

“ I am very pleased that after years of negotiations between the Town Council of St George’s and the marina developers that required approvals of various ministries and the Governor have been received,” Sen Fahy told The Royal Gazette.

“The relevant leases must now be brought to Parliament which will happen in the New Year.

“The Ministry of Home Affairs when advised of the project over two years ago has done everything it can to assist in seeing this project come to fruition which will add another income opportunity to revitalise the Old Town.

“We are pleased indeed to work hand in hand with the Council for the benefit of Bermuda and the people of St George’s.”

The first phase of the work will include a breakwater as well as 38 yacht berths.

It will also include renovations and improvements to the old terminal building on Ordnance Island, while the building’s facilities will all be upgraded as part of the project.

The news was welcomed by Quinell Francis, the Mayor of St George’s.

“This is good news for the town,” she said. “We are very pleased to see this development, which will have a significant impact on St George’s and the whole of Bermuda, moving forward.”

She added: “I would like to thank the two former mayors, MP Kenneth Bascome and Garth Rothwell, for their vision and work on moving the marina project forward during their tenure on the Corporation of St George’s.

“In addition, former Aldermen Steve Hollis and Sen Renee Ming, along with my current members who have worked to ensure this vision does become a reality.”

Last month The Royal Gazette reported that the final agreement between developers and the Corporation of St George’s for the marina had been signed.

The agreement between the corporation and St George’s Harbour Marina Ltd could see the first phase of the project completed in time for the America’s Cup in 2017. If politicians and then planners give the development the green light construction could begin next year.