Politicians are expected to debate amendments to several housing and land development acts today that could see Government grant much longer leases to developers.

It is hoped that, if passed, the amendments will speed up home building and long-awaited redevelopment in areas like Dockyard.

Under the proposed changes, leases for certain areas could be extended to 120 years. Currently leases only last 21 years.

The new limit will apply to lease deals struck by the Bermuda Housing Corporation, the West End Development Corporation, the Bermuda Land Development Company and the Department of Works and Engineering.

Provisions are included for longer leases to be vetted by Cabinet.

Details will be outlined in four new bills being discussed today ? the Department of Works and Engineering Amendment Act 2006, the Bermuda Housing Amendment Act 2006, the West End Development Corporation Amendment Act 2006 and the Base Lands Development Amendment Act 2006.

Today's session of the House of Assembly will also see the Minister of Environment, Neletha Butterfield, take note of the State of the Environment Report.