An exciting new vision for the future of North East Hamilton has been unveiled that will help revitalise the area.

Gombey Square and Princess Gates could soon become as famous as Front Street for shopping and entertainment in the capital.

These are the names of two of 13 districts outlined in a blueprint for the regeneration for the district

Residents took their first look at the physical plans for the North East Hamilton Economic Empowerment Zone at a meeting last night.

The forum, at the New Testament Church of God, was the first of a series of public consultations on plans to regenerate the area. Architects, landscape designers and planners joined Finance Minister Paula Cox and members of the Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation (BSBDC) in presenting the blueprint.

Residents and businesses are now encouraged to help shape the Draft Land Use Strategy and Design Guidelines. BSBDC General Manager Michelle Khaldun said: “Everything starts with a vision.

“The next, very critical stage, is to ensure that our North East Hamilton stakeholders fully understand the vision, have the opportunity to provide feedback and most importantly, get involved.

“The Economic Empowerment Zone initiative is about providing the opportunity for Bermudians to prosper.”

* See tomorrow's Royal Gazette for the full story plus exclusive pictures of how North East Hamilton might look.