Freighters are complaining of an unworkable deadline to find new space for stripping sheds after the Corporation decided to close number eight shed by the end of the month.

Last year the Corporation of Hamilton said it wanted to close crate stripping sheds seven and eight to create more space on the cramped Front Street Dock and gave a March 31 deadline.

The Non Vessel Operators Common Carriers Association (NVOCC) said that was too tight but two weeks ago the Corporation told them number eight shed must cease operations two months earlier. The association warned costs for importers could now soar and it is appealing to clients for support.

A statement for customers, obtained by , said the recent decision to move the deadline came out of the blue, giving them a fortnight?s notice.

It said: ?This now causes a near impossible position for LCL importers!

?There is no dispute congestion that threatens safety and efficiency has grown on the docks over the years. However it can and must be solved co-operatively.?

The Corporation has not offered alternative space and freighters said they are now being saddled with finding and paying for a new site.

Freighters had suggested compromise during months of talks, keeping both sheds in place this year and finding a permanent solution for next year.

In the meantime they wanted to simplify HM Customs? clearance, use the sheds more efficiently through racking and improved flow by removing uncollected freight to an alternative pound after five days. They also suggested opening the docks and the freight sheds earlier and operate through lunchtime.

The statement said: ?Both freight sheds must be permitted to operate through 2005.

?Even then a considerable increase in costs will likely result to the smaller importers unless the COH provides a timely, alternative location for LCL stripping, as has been their historical responsibility as the owner and operator of what amounts to the national cargo port for Bermuda.

?The NVOCC?s will work to minimise inconvenience and extra cost to customers.

?But they are asking importers to pressure the Corporation of Hamilton into retaining both freight sheds for this year and to providing a cost efficient, alternative freight stripping facility in 2006.?

Asked about the new deadline last night Corporation Mayor Lawson Mapp said: ?This is the first I am hearing about it.?

Efforts to reach Wharf Committee chairman Jay Bluck were unsuccessful.