The architect of the Dockyard redesign of 20 years ago was back yesterday to give tips on revamping the Hamilton waterfront.

Don Hilderbrandt, who has worked on various waterfront redevelopments, told the Chamber of Commerce AGM that private investment was essential.

?You cannot just be pretty,? he said.

And he said it was wrong to only pick on one big theme to carry an entire waterfront development. Last last year the Corporation of Hamilton unveiled plans for a revitalised waterfront to allow mega-cruise ships to exist alongside an exhibition hall, conference centre, retail village and tree-lined amphitheatre.

Mr. Hilderbrandt, who has just retired as design director of HNTB, unveiled a rough sketch which featured plenty of greenery.

He said it was vital to create public space with as much waterfront access as possible with promenades and parks.