glimmer of hope.

Government Ministers are to look again at 16-year-old plans to establish a new dock at Mangrove Bay -- a move that businessfolk believe could spark a revitalisation of the area.

But officials are extremely wary of the environmental impact a new stop could have on the pristine beach and park. Any plans will be carefully considered and residents' views taken into account.

Transport Minister Erwin Adderley said the project was being looked into to determine whether or not it was a viable proposition.

He said it would not be included in the budget for this financial year and if it was in the following year's, it may have to be at the expense of another plan.

"There was support for it within the Government at some point in the past.

But in the meantime there is some work to be done. There are some negative aspects and we have responsibilities to the people living in the area,'' he said.

He said whatever the result, it would be in the best interests of the community there.

And he added there was already an existing ferry stop at Watford Bridge to consider.

The plans have been revived after West End businesses, led by Robin Joell, spoke out over what they described as years of inactivity over the proposal.

They believe a new stop would bring tourists directly into Somerset, bringing much-neeeded revenue to shops and restaurants that have suffered from the popularity of Dockyard.

And there is a belief that the West End ferry route could attract extra passengers by calling at a stop in the midst of the Somerset residential area.

Sandys North MPs Eugene Cox and Dennis Lister have signalled their support and the matter is due to be discussed by the Sandys Action Group.

GOVERNMENT GVT