reality until at least 2001.

But both Tourism Minister David Allen and Corporation of Hamilton Secretary Roger Sherratt are optimistic the business and tourist facility on the Par-La-Ville car park will be built. A December 1999 completion date originally cited by developers TG International Investments is now unfeasible.

Excavations could start at the beginning of next year.

"The Corporation is very optimistic that something will happen there, certainly it is considered to be a very prime site,'' said Mr. Sherratt. "But we have to be aware of developers who would like to do other things on that site.

"The indications are that TG International are making good progress and should soon be in a position of financial agreement with the Corporation.'' The TG International scheme, which includes a luxury hotel with condominiums, health club, underground car parking and restaurants, is intended to enhance the area substantially.

And environmental improvements for the surrounding area, including Par-La-Ville Park, have also found favour with city officials.

"We have not set a deadline,'' Mr. Sherratt said. "We are in constant communication with the developers and we are optimistic we will be able to do something. If not, we would have to look at other options.

"It would be reasonable that the Corporation would want to give them every opportunity to conclude the original agreement.'' City centre hotel scheme delayed Mr. Sherratt added that a split between TG International and Dawnay Day Hotels had been completely amicable, and there was still scope for the London-based company to come back on board in the future.

Dawnay Day, it is understood, were in favour of a hotel only project and were against the idea of condos, believing they would not sell.

But others think the properties will be popular, when taken in context of a possible pedestrianisation and major traffic calming project set to be completed in Hamilton.

All relevant planning permissions have been given for the scheme, which also includes road widening and new toilets.

Glynn Shouldice, of TG International, was unavailable for comment.