The Development Applications Board recently granted in principle approval for the demolition of part of the long closed hotel.

And developers plan to replace the resort with three separate buildings housing a 21-suite executive hotel, 18 residential units and pool, and a delicatessen which will be open to the public.

In a letter to the Department, Director of Tourism Gary Phillips supported the application and noted it "fits in with the Government's objective to diversify Bermuda's tourism accommodations to provide more choices for visitors''.

Across Hamilton Harbour, planning permission was also granted to create three apartments at 61 Front Street.

The one-bedroom units will each be on a separate floor of Chatham House -- on the corner of Burnaby Street and Front Street.

The retail outlet area will also be upgraded.

Permission was also granted for the creation of a Japanese garden on Marshall's Island in Warwick.

The garden will feature a 34-foot-long fishpond, waterfall, wooden boardwalk, stone bridge, tea pavilion and gates and pathways.

The private residence already includes a pool, tennis court, jetty, and formal and informal gardens.

TOURISM TOU