Harbour development scheme and were personally briefed on the plans, a former Environment Minister said yesterday.

The Hon. Gerald Simons was hitting back at criticism fired by Mr. Tim Marshall, chairman of the National Trust's environment committee, over the multi-million-dollar plan.

Landowners Bermuda Property Ltd want to build 46 condominiums on land partly zoned as woodland, open space and coastline.

However, objectors claim the developers have violated planning laws driving wide tracks through virgin woodland and damaging caves.

Mr. Marshall claimed BPL directly influenced ministers into approving the application -- which had not been heard by the statutory planning body, the Development Applications Board.

Speaking to the Hamilton Lions yesterday, Mr. Simons, who gave permission in principle for the development, said he had received a letter from Mr. Marshall about the scheme.

Mr. Simons quoted from the letter which read: "The environment committee of the National Trust has given careful consideration to the proposed development.

"We can say at the outset that to a great extent the proposed development is tolerable from an environmental perspective.'' The letter was dated June 23.

"That is as much of an endorsement as you can expect from the National Trust,'' added Mr. Simons.

He added it was untrue that most of the land concerned was protected space. In fact, most was zoned for development, he said and refuted suggestions that opposition to the plan was stifled.

"That is not true. The project was not kept a secret. The project was widely discussed within Government and outside Government and the environment committee was given a presentation on it.'' Under current law, the Environment Minister may bypass the DAB and approve any development with a special order -- a mechanism criticised by Mr. Marshall.

However, Mr. Simons said ministers were advised by technical officers and in discussion with the Cabinet could grant planning permission. He said there was no political bias and being connected with the UBP did not grant anyone any favours in planning matters.

"In this case consultations with tourism and immigration were extensive.

Ministers are answerable to the public,'' added Mr. Simons.

He admitted the planning process could be improved to be more open with DAB meetings possibly opened to the public and appeals heard by a tribunal rather than an inspector or Minister as at present.

Mr. Simons also suggested Ministers could make decisions public and that the public should be encouraged to become more involved.

"We should recognise that we have been very successful in managing our natural resources, particularly given the fact that Bermuda is one of the most densely populated countries on earth,'' he added.