Shadow Environment Minister Cole Simons called for a crackdown on Planning laws after a Somerset beach was bulldozed last week.

With natural rock formations and longtail nests destroyed, as well as a portion of the cliff at the beach in Somerset shaved away, Mr. Simons demanded Government put an end to environmental terrorism.

?I am greatly disturbed by what has occurred at the beach in Somerset (Gilbert?s Bay),? he told on Friday night. ?But, I must admit, those types of Planning violations continue daily throughout the Island.

?We have seen mass destruction and erosion of our coastline as a result of Hurricane Fabian, and as a result, we can ill afford to have those problems compounded by the flagrant violation of our Planning laws by our residents.

?During my short time as Shadow Minister of the Environment, a number of Planning violations have been brought to my attention throughout the Island.

?There are people on this Island who have no regard for Planning laws and enforcement laws.

?Government inspectors have issued many enforcement orders, yet these rogues don?t care about the environment and our protective covenants and will do as they please. This must stop.

?Environmental terrorism must stop. It is time for the PLP Government to demonstrate that they are truly sensitive to environmental laws, our delicate balance, our eco-systems and our protected habitats.

?We need to review our Planning laws, along with our environmental impairment laws, so that they are more punitive and more respected by these environmental terrorists and the people of Bermuda. There must be real deterrents.

?When crafting these laws, the Government must work far more closely with the judiciary, in particular the ?bench?, so that there is not misunderstanding of Government intent, and concerns when it comes to Bermuda?s delicate balance, its protected habitat and the many eco-systems which must be protected and respected.?