Tourism received a well-timed boost with the announcement that work on an $11 million local resort is set to begin next month.

Agreements are in place for construction work to start on the innovative Daniel's Head eco-village in the next few weeks -- clearing the way for around 95 "tents'' at the West End site.

The news comes after a dismal week for tourism, when Government pulled the plug on negotiations for a $300 million community and resort at Morgan's Harbour.

Yesterday, architects Cooper and Gardner and builders BCM MacAlpine heralded the start of the Daniel's Head project, which is scheduled to open its doors by in 2000.

Architect John Gardner said everything was in place to start construction, and he was not aware of any unforeseen hitches at present.

Eco-resort "We have reached an agreement in principle with BCM MacAlpine,'' he said.

"We kept working through until we got there. There are always worries until something is in the bag -- whether you can pull it off or not.

"Financing has never been a problem for this project.'' Based on the concept originated by US eco-guru Stanley Selengut, the scheme is being financed through Lew Geyser of Destination Villages.

Up to 40 full-time jobs are expected to be created at the former Canadian Naval base, with approximately 95 tents, some on stilts, and 20 rooms around a main reception and dining area.

Natural walkways will link the areas, with viewing panels in some tents creating a "back to nature'' feel for discerning visitors -- based on already successful villages in Hawaii and the Virgin Islands.

The canvas tents will be imported prefabricated from Los Angeles.

BCM MacAlpine boss Alan Burland said it was an aggressive time scale but they were prepared to go.

"It is an interesting project,'' he said. "Nothing like this has been built before in Bermuda. We understand what the developer wants to do.'' Part of the project will include refurbishing some of the former military buildings, including providing 24 hotel rooms.

The remaining 20 tents will come on line in the next couple of years.

Mr. Gardner commended the Tourism and Planning departments, and site operators Bermuda Land Development Company, for their support during the planning stages.

Eco-resorts are popular with mature tourists looking for a different vacation experience, where they can interact with the local community -- an experience they are prepared to pay for.

The developers are keen to stress that public access to the beach and park at Daniel's Head will still be allowed during the construction, but may be limited at certain times.