Entrepreneurs are being asked to submit proposals to turn Dockyard into "a vibrant live-work-play community".

The West End Development Corporation (Wedco) is now asking for Request for Proposals (RFPs) to transform the Victualling Yard into a hub of shops, cafes, restaurants and nightlife.

The development of the historic attraction offers opportunities to cash in on the arrival of thousands of tourists from the Panamax cruise liners from 2009.

As from next year the mega-ships will centre all cruise activity on the West End, bringing a boom to the local economy. It is therefore also vital to have facilities in place to cater for them.

The changing nature of the cruise ship industry with these bigger vessels means the City of Hamilton and St. George's can no longer accommodate the tourist arrivals. Many retailers and restaurateurs have expressed concern about potential loss of business in Hamilton, but the building of the second Cruise Ship Pier in Dockyard presents new opportunities to cash in on cruise visitor arrivals.

Wedco says: "We encourage and support business proposals which offer alternatives for entertainment during the day and night which will enhance The West End experience."

In the RFP package - available from Wedco's offices in the Clocktower Centre, the organisation says: "Investors will find the location offers a wide range of possibilities, from condominium complexes and single residential units to commercial office and retail units.

"A venue rich in history, we are now working to transform the entire area into a vibrant live-work-play community."

Wedco was established in 1982 to steer the commercial and residential development of the West End, which it describes as "Bermuda's best kept secret". The corporation's strategic plan of 1986 was revised last year, to allow for "120-year lease agreements for major commercial investments".

Wedco says it is also making upgrades to infrastructure in: road works; dock development; water plant; sewage treatment; Belco, Telco and Cablevision; lighting; building security surveillance; and entrance bridge and ramp.

Describing RFPs for the development of the Victualling Yard, the corporation says: "These services may be provided by one company or by separate consultants as part of a comprehensive project team, but must make provision for a local project manager or project lead relative to site development, marketing plans and overall understanding of the local business environment and community."

Wedco says its objective is "to select the company that is able to provide the best overall value to the West End".

The RFP closing date is June 20, with completion of the selection process - subject to Cabinet approval, by August 29. The contract is to be awarded on September 8.

Michelle Burrows, Wedco's Senior Business Development and Marketing Manager, was yesterday unavailable for comment.

Local businesses however, have welcomed the RFP process. Carol West, owner of the Frog and Onion pub, said: "There's been a series of businesses hoping to open up here over the years but for some reason or another, plans have fallen through.

"Right now we've got two derelict buildings there, so it would be lovely to fill this big hole in the developed area of Dockyard.

"I'm not concerned about competition as I believe Wedco will develop this area copiously and with care. I think they are aware of having a mix of businesses here."

Any RFP inquiries must be submitted in writing to Michelle Burrows at: mburrows@wedco.bm by May 2. RFPs must be delivered to Ms Burrows at the Wedco offices by 4 p.m. on June 2.