One of the developments causing great concern among environmentalists is the $250-million Tucker's Point development.

Located on and near the former Marriott Castle Harbour property, the development is taking place in one of the Island's most cave-dense areas.

Environmentalists fought the project from its inception, particularly in an attempt to protect the Ship's Hill area. Developers were eventually granted a Special Development Order, but that order carries conditions, one of which is that if a cave is broken into through excavation or other construction activities, the Ministry of Environment must be notified.

Work should stop in the vicinity of the uncovered cave until an inspection can be performed and an appropriate course of action to save the cave determined.

While there have been concerns this practice has not been followed, according to the Ministry of Environment, the developers - Bermuda Properties Ltd. - have been extremely co-operative.

This week, The Royal Gazette was told three caves have been uncovered due to construction activities on the site, but the Bermuda Properties has reported the incidents as required.

Government Conservation Officer Jeremy Madeiros said one cave was uncovered during the summer and following inspection it was sealed and is now protected.

Another opened cave was reported in October, Environment Ministry Permanent Secretary Brian Rowlinson said. It was only a cave crack, which was inspected and capped, he added.

The most recent incident was reported December 17 when a medium-sized cave was uncovered.

Mr. Rowlinson said work was halted in the area around the exposed cave and Ministry inspectors visited the site the next day. An engineering solution to seal off and protect the cave is being investigated at the moment, he said.

Mr. Madeiros also said Bermuda Properties have been co-operative in his work to try and protect the caves on the property.