Small-scale importers will no longer be allowed to unload partly loaded and shared containers on Hamilton docks, the Corporation of Hamilton announced yesterday.

Currently, LCLs (less than container loads) are being stripped ? or unloaded ? in number seven cargo shed.

But that practice will cease from September 15 to create room for the ever-increasing number of containers that are shipped to the cramped city docks.

From then, number seven shed will be used for container storage and the LCLs will have to be stripped elsewhere.

The Corporation said 500 containers per week arrive at the commercial docks and that putting an end to unloading there will increase safety and efficiency.

Importers who bring in full container loads, often larger businesses, normally transport them to their own premises where they do the unloading themselves.

But smaller businesses, or those importing lightweight and low-volume goods, tend to bring in LCLs, sharing containers with others.

Michelle Khaldun, general manager of the Bermuda Small Business Development Council, said she was not aware of specific concerns among her members.

?I do know that there have been discussions taking place between the Customs department and those who will be affected,? Ms Khaldun said. ?Some proposals have been made but I?m not aware what has been decided.?

The Corporation is setting up a task force representing all interested parties and stakeholders to resolve the issues associated with the rule change.

Anyone interested in joining the task force should contact Mike Dolding, the Corporation?s dock manager, on 337-4045 or by e-mail at mdoldingcityhall.bm.

?The safety and efficiency of the Hamilton docks is an important priority,? Hamilton Mayor Sutherland Madeiros said yesterday.

?With Bermuda?s buoyant economy, cargo coming into Bermuda continues to grow and, after many years of discussion, the Corporation has made the decision to cease allowing LCL containers to be stripped on the number seven dock as a safety precaution.

?We also expect this decision will alleviate the traffic congestion around number seven dock.?

Cargo stripping does not place in most international ports and the Corporation said eliminating here would streamline its operations in line with world standards.

?We felt that September 15 would be a relatively quiet time for the import industry since it falls after Cup Match and before Christmas and would, therefore, be the most sensible time for this to take effect,? Mayor Madeiros added.

The move is the second part of a phased plan to improve the safety and efficiency of the commercial docks, the first being the closure and removal of number eight cargo shed in 2004.