A compensation deal must form part of the package to owners of listed buildings, it has been claimed.

Those who own or are responsible for the upkeep of significant homes and premises need to be reimbursed for more expensive repairs and alterations.

That is the consensus of many people who agree with the policy of recognising and protecting the Island's physical heritage, but feel the nation should help pay for them.

The listed buildings policy was announced by Environment Minister Arthur Hodgson last week, and although it is basically the same as the scheme revealed by the previous Government, it has yet to find favour with the majority.

Of the 800 buildings selected to be part of the list, 300 have agreed to be included but 200 have raised objections and a further 300 have not replied to correspondence from the Government.

The Minister is hopeful that the reluctant can be persuaded on board without having to resort to more serious measures, and he has yet to decide whether compensation will form part of the scheme.

Bermuda National Trust director Amanda Outerbridge said there was a need for some help to enable people to fulfill the requirements of the policy.

"We are pleased that the Minister is clearly very supportive of the listing of buildings,'' she said.

"We are also in favour of some method of assisting people to abide by the conditions. Architecture is one of the most significant resources here and it is one of the top three things that visitors remark upon -- it is what is unique about Bermuda.'' One resident who is responsible for the upkeep of a Paget listed home said something that the Government was promoting as benefiting the rest of the country should not be paid for by just the owners.

"My view and that of many owners I have spoken to, is that we are not against the principle of listing but the cost that is put on the individual,'' he said.

"I think the fair thing would be a break on land tax, which would increase the value.'' In addition, he believes some owners are concerned that the Historical Buildings Advisory Committee may have too much sway when planning applications are considered for listed buildings. And he said forcing people to be part of the list could lead to adverse reactions.

"They could force me to do it but to have people doing it begrudgingly, then someone may challenge it. It could lead to more trouble.'' The resident said they all agreed it was a good idea but believed the burden should be spread.

For example, in the UK owners can apply for a grant aid on a proportional basis, so they are not disadvantaged by paying extra for more expensive work or fixtures. He said they were not asking for something for free but some assistance along the way.