The security of the City electricity supply remains at risk, says Belco, because the utility is unable to establish a much needed sub-station for the City's west end.

The utility's "perfect'' site on Woodbourne Avenue remains embroiled in controversy that now awaits Ministerial attention.

The Minister of the Environment is set to hear the appeal launched in February by Belco against a Development Applications Board (DAB) rejection of plans for the siting.

The Minister, the Hon. Gerald Simons, has been advised this week that all of the necessary documents are now available for his perusal.

Senator Simons is expected in the weeks ahead to review the positions of the applicants and the objectors and make a site visit to inspect the premises.

Meanwhile, Belco waits. The utility is so desperate to get a sub-station for the area on line, it has pursued other possibilities.

Belco president and CEO Mr. Garry Madeiros said, "We're looking at other places, trying to see whether or not there is anything that provides opportunities. We've been in discussions with different parties, but we're no further ahead.

"We had budgeted last year to commence operations for the sub-station's actual building. That hasn't taken place. We've got it again in our budget this year to commence, because we need it. Unfortunately, that has not transpired.

"We are talking to three different parties at this point in time. One of them was the Bermuda Financial Centre. But of course, at this point, that is neither here nor there.

"So we are put in a position where we have to negotiate big time. That's why we are appealing to the Ministry, as well. That's an area (the Woodbourne site) that has a benefit to Belco.'' The power company warned three months ago the security of the electricity supply to the west end of the City may be at risk.

That warning came as it prepared the appeal to the November DAB decision that blocked the plan to convert the old Woodbourne Guest House into an electricity sub-station.

The DAB had ruled the property was unsuited to such a use "due to its location and the potential detrimental impact of the development on the amenity of the human and natural environments of the area.'' The Board said the development would be better located on a commercial property in the area. Its decision was in line with the recommendations of the Planning Department, whose director, Mr. Brian Rowlinson, yesterday conceded the application was a difficult one.

Belco argues that most of its 31 sub-stations across the Island are already in residential areas, without which it could not provide electricity. For the most part, he said, the sub-stations make little noise and can be made to blend in with the surroundings.

Mr. Madeiros said in January, "A lack of available property and constraints inherent with finding a suitable building for a sub-station could eventually compromise the security of the City supply.'' Belco indicated in its proposal there would be few changes to the exterior, with the exception of the replacement of windows and shutters.

The sub-station equipment was to be installed on the ground floor, while the upper floor was to be used as accommodation for staff and contract workers.