A RECENT poll indicates that 80 per cent of the population believes Government is failing in the preservation of Bermuda's open spaces.The findings were part of a Media Impact Research poll carried out by Research.bm in February which interviewed 400 residents.

Only 20 per cent of respondents felt that Government is properly managing the development and preservation of the island's open spaces, with the greatest concern among those in the middle income groups, aged 18-34 and 55 and older.

When asked how they felt about the development of five new hotels, 58 per cent were concerned, citing worries about the impact on the island's infrastructure (28 per cent), environment (19 per cent) and the need for more foreign workers (11 per cent).

Meanwhile, 16 per cent saw the development as a positive sign of tourism, while 14 per cent hoped it could lead to greater job opportunities for Bermudians.

As for development in the City of Hamilton, 40 per cent believe that buildings seven to ten storeys high should be allowed, with above average support from those with a college education in the $80,000-plus income group.

With an election pending, respondents were also asked to rate Dr. Ewart Brown and Wayne Furbert, as well as the ruling Progressive Labour Party and Opposition United Bermuda Party.

Respondents were asked to rank them in five categories ranging from being very favourable to not at all favourable.

Taking into account the top three categories, Mr. Furbert had the edge on being ranked more favourable at 58 per cent, compared to Dr. Brown's 54 per cent.

Mr. Furbert proved especially popular among the 65 and older age group earning less than $40,000, while Dr. Brown proved favourable among those aged 55-65 earning $40,000 to $79,000.

The UBP also had a more favourable rating at 55 per cent compared to the PLP at 50 per cent and when asked who they would vote for if an election were to take place tomorrow, both parties received an equal share of votes with 25 per cent each.

However, a substantial percentage of those interviewed indicated that they would not vote and most of the non-voters were male at 59 per cent compared to the 41 per cent of female non-voters.

Seventy-five per cent said they felt a Government television station was unnecessary and 82 per cent were in favour of mandatory drug testing for Government officials.

In the area of law enforcement, respondents were asked if they had faith in the Bermuda Police Service to solve and reduce crime.

The majority of respondents, 66 per cent, said no, while 34 per cent said yes. The majority of these were older than 65.

When asked if they were in favour or against the current system of recruitment for the Bermuda Regiment, 66 per cent said yes with higher than average support from those in the middle income group, 65 and older.