dollar projects moving into top gear.

Following the announcement that construction work will start at the $11 million Daniel's Head eco-resort at the West End in a few weeks, Tourism Minister David Allen revealed that two other projects are also making progress.

And it is understood that an announcement on the future of the former US Naval Annex at Southampton, Morgan's Point, is due to be made within the next few weeks.

Mr. Allen said new venture capital partners are now involved with Bermuda Properties Ltd. at Marriott's Castle Harbour Resort and an agreement in principle with the Government is now being drafted.

In addition, Regent International Hotels is likely to take over the management of the new $168 million resort -- which Mr. Allen said would be the largest hotel development in the history of Bermuda.

"Bermuda Properties have a huge stake in it going ahead. They have a property there. It will drive itself,'' he said.

And he added that talks with Canadian investors over the new Belmont resort are also moving ahead.

"The three projects have now moved onto the first tier,'' he said. "I think Daniel's Head is very important, this resort will create a real buzz within the green community overseas.

"It could become a role model for other places.'' In addition, he said a new proposal has been made for the former Club Med property in St. George's, which may start to move in the long term.

Mr. Allen said progress at Castle Harbour had not been as fast as he had hoped for, and indicated Government may have to bring forward some legislation to enable a deal to be signed off on.

The first phase is scheduled for completion in 2001, with the rest of the project coming on line a year later.

Projected to become a five-star hotel over several years, it is expected that it will take up some of the slack in the construction industry.

"It will have a big impact on the local construction companies,'' he said.

The interest generated by the impending start of Daniel's Head eco-resort could also lead to spin offs on the Island.

Mr. Allen said talks were at an early stage with the Ministry of Environment on holding an eco-conference on the Island.

Focusing on tourism and sustainable development, the conference could take place as early as next year.