site of the Bermuda Book Store on Queen Street has been deferred pending the receipt of additional information.

The site, which includes the buildings housing Smuggler's Reef, Bermuda Book Store, Treasure Chest and Flying Colours, is owned by Pembroke Stores.

The Bermuda National Trust has opposed the development from the outset and listed several reasons why the proposed development should not go ahead.

The Trust said the site was "key to Front Street's character and charm,'' and it was "imperative this is ambience'' be preserved.

The trust also objected to the development as the Bermuda Book Store building has remained unaltered since the 19th Century and they submitted that plans to redevelop should incorporate that building.

They also claimed the proposed development was not in keeping with "traditional'' Bermudian Architecture as it is too tall and would alter Hamilton's skyline.

The new building design includes "dormer'' windows of mirrored glass which may prove dangerous to birds, the Trust said.

The Trust also submitted that the development, in conjunction with a proposed eight-storey hotel north of the site will make an overheated canyon and destroy the ambience of the bordering Par-la-Ville Park.

The Trust submitted to the DAB that the development should not be granted in-principle approval "unless the application is substantially revised'' saying that the junction of Front Street and Queen Street is "crucial'' to Bermuda's image.

Although five storeys high, spokespeople for the developers, Robert Zuill and Tana Tucker, explained that special attention to retaining the traditional Bermuda architectural design and feel have been of paramount importance.