Plans to extend and upgrade King’s Wharf in Dockyard have been given the green light by the Department of Planning.

According to planning documents, a pair of planning applications for the dock were approved by the Director of Planning last month.

It was earlier announced that the project, expected to begin in October and be completed by March 2026, would cost about $22 million and be fully funded by Norwegian Cruise Lines as part of a port infrastructure upgrade.

The first application proposed an extension and improvements to the King’s Wharf cruise ship terminal, bringing it in line with the neighbouring Heritage Wharf.

The project would involve the removal of two berthing dolphins, which would allow the main concrete deck to be extended by about 35.5 metres on either side.

The application said the expansion was intended to better meet the needs of the cruise industry and the island’s tourism sector.

A delegated report by a technical officer recommended the proposal be given the green light, noting the project would provide “needed infrastructure” for cruise ship operators.

The report noted that the design was in keeping with the maritime and industrial character of the area and highlighted consultation with bodies including the Historical Buildings Advisory Committee, the National Museum of Bermuda and the Historic Wrecks Authority.

The report writer noted that while the dock did not comply with dimensions stipulated under planning policies, there was discretion to allow for larger docks if the applicants could demonstrate it would be shared by a number of users.

The second of the two applications proposed extending and upgrading the nearby excursion dock to improve berthing for the Spirit of St George tender, which carries visitors between Dockyard and St George’s.

It said that transportation challenges had been identified as a “major obstacle” to cruise ship visitors arriving in Dockyard, limiting their economic impact.

A delegated report stated that the proposal had been carefully sited on an already modified man-made structure, minimising the impact on the coastline, and that it would support the growth of the Dockyard as an historic centre and visitor destination.

“The proposal avoids encroachment into any new natural coastline and remains within the boundaries of the man-made structure,” the report continued.

“The proposal retains the visual character of the area. Furthermore, the inclusion of safety features including guard rails, lighting and access steps demonstrates consideration for public safety and accessibility.”

While both applications were approved, it was mandated that a “qualified and experienced” archaeological professional be brought on board to oversee the works before a building permit is issued.

Any archaeological findings must be reported in writing to the heritage officer of the Department of Planning and the senior marine heritage officer of the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources within 24 hours.