An environmental group is to meet with Planning officials to discuss a request for an extension for public objections to Government proposals.

The Bermuda Environmental and Sustainability Taskforce (BEST) says seven days is too short a time for counter objections to the Planning Department's submissions on the Draft Bermuda Plan 2008.

The tribunal received the proposed amendments for the new Planning statement yesterday and is now considering the recommendations.

"We told the tribunal this morning there wasn't enough time and that we were unable to go through the entire 52 pages in the time that was given," said BEST chairman Stuart Hayward.

"They have invited us to come by to talk to someone at the Planning Department, so it does sound hopeful. We will go in some time early next week."

Planning consultant Aideen Ratteray Pryse said she was disappointed she was not given a chance to speak at the tribunal.

"Whenever I've launched a counter objection in the past I've had an opportunity to speak. It does beg the question about due process, but they do have the authority on how to manage their meeting."

Mrs. Ratteray Pryse said there were items in the statement she believed to be beyond the powers of the Development Applications Board.

"The Planning statement talks about the amalgamation of lots but when you look at the definition of subdivision in the Planning Act and in the Planning statement, they are different.

"But if you want to change the definition in the Act, expand it, you have to make an amendment to the Planning Act.

"That is the main thing I was looking for this morning whether it has been changed, as one of the proposed amendments to the Draft Plan."

The tribunal will make recommendations to the Environment Minister who will present the final Draft Bermuda Plan 2008 to the Legislature.