The Bermuda Hospitals Board delved further into its new Master Plan for the future of healthcare in Bermuda last night ? despite a meagre turn-out at a public meeting in St. George?s.

During an hour-long presentation, architectural and planning consultant Ron McIntyre laid bare the options at the BHB?s and the community?s disposal ? including the construction of three new ?primary care? clinics spread throughout the Island and a brand new central hospital which must be in place by 2012 at the latest.

The key objectives of the Estate Master Plan ? research for which was carried out in conjunction with overseas consultants and began in November 2003 ? are to ensure more efficient Island-wide healthcare coverage, a reduced stress on the main ?acute care? hospital and to encourage a greater number of Bermudians to adopt a career in healthcare.

Three possible locations for the new, 150-bed hospital are under consideration ? which include the Botanical Gardens, the Arboretum and the current King Edward VII Memorial Hospital site. The BHB is now actively seeking feedback from the community on which site is perceived the most viable. There are strengths and weaknesses associated with each site, Mr. McIntyre said, and the BHB is sensitive to the environmental implications of locating the facility in either the Botanical Gardens or the Arboretum.

But there would be serious logistical difficulties with attempting to build a brand new hospital on the current site while continuing to maintain and operate the existing infrastructure Mr. McIntyre warned ? although access to the area is very good and many health care agencies and physicians are located in close proximity on Point Finger Road. Constructing the hospital in the Botanical Garden would be somewhat easier, he suggested ? although 20 buildings in the area, including the Department of Parks, would have to be knocked down and alternative homes sought.

The BHB?s final public meeting will take place at St. James? Church Hall at 7 p.m. tonight and the public is being urged to show up and make a contribution.

Mr. McIntyre?s presentation is also available online at www.bermudahospitals.bm.