Dozens of jobs are in the pipeline with plans for a $60 million shopping, housing and office complex overlooking Hamilton Harbour.

Pearman, Watlington and Company say the scheme will give the construction industry a shot-in-the-arm.

And it will also offer long-term job prospects once the Pitts Bay Road development is built.

Yesterday, PWs announced the ambitious proposals had been handed to the Department of Planning for approval in principle.

It also emerged the company had received a flood of overseas interest from potential office tenants.

"We've been delighted by the amount of interest shown,'' said PW Chief Executive Officer Mr. William Cox.

Local architects, Harold Conyers and Associates -- part of the design team -- said they were thrilled to be involved in the ambitious venture.

"We believe this team will ensure that the final result is something in which all Bermuda can take pride,'' declared Mr. Conyers.

Under the scheme -- first announced in June -- PWs will raze to the ground such buildings as the Miles Super Service Market, which will be rebuilt nearby.

They will be replaced by luxury homes, a marina and a restaurant, among other developments.

As well as a new Miles store, there will also be a coffee shop, pharmacy, and dry cleaners. And Rock Island Coffee and Bermuda Island Cruises will be brought into the scheme.

In addition, some 30 luxury condominiums overlooking Hamilton Harbour are planned. These would be two-storey, two-bedroom homes, each covering 2,200 square feet.

The project will be carried out in two phases -- the offices will be built first, followed by the luxury homes.

It is anticipated the entire development on a 4.2 acres site will be complete by the year 2,000.

PWs revealed yesterday a project manager had been appointed to spearhead the venture.

Said PWs president Mr. Harry Cox: "The highest quality of materials will ensure that the feeling of stability, history, continuity and grace are maintained.

"The value of this site commands that close attention be paid to every detail of its progression into becoming the cornerstone of Bermuda's business centre.'' Mr. Conyers and his firm have been appointed to ensure the development boasted a Bermudian flavour.

"We are thrilled to participate in making this landmark project a reality.

"The blend of office, residential and retail will convert this site into the premier multi-use developments in Bermuda.'' Said Mr. William Cox: "The incorporation of a less imposing, more Bermudian design has been the goal of the project.

"This goal has been achieved in spectacular style.'' He added: "The office buildings, the retail shops, the market square and the residential quadrant have been very well received by all who have been exposed to them.'' Mr. Cox said he expected dozens of jobs to be created through the project.

One of the likely office tenants in the new complex is Centre Reinsurance Holdings Ltd.

Centre Re had intended taking over 71,000 square feet of office space at the proposed Bermuda Financial Centre -- earmarked for the old Bermudiana Hotel, overlooking the PW site.

Yesterday, Mr. William Cox told The Royal Gazette discussions with Centre Re were ongoing.

"They are heavily involved in the project.'' He added the proposed development had attracted a lot of interest from abroad.

Mr. Cox said two of PWs neighbours -- the Princess Hotel and Waterloo House -- were also being consulted over the scheme.

He hoped the scheme sent to planners would meet any concerns of neighbours and the National Trust.