popular sightseeing and entertainment complex by attracting an estimated 311,074 residents and visitors in 1994.

Last year saw a 21 percent increase on 1993 figures, with gains in all categories, including the new St. George's to Dockyard ferry service, which attracted an additional 10,088 passengers through Dockyard.

"A significant trend has been the obvious appeal of the Dockyard during the off-season, with our restaurants and shops able to maintain viable sales even when the weather has been inclement,'' said West End Development Corporation general manager Mr. George Smith.

"It was encouraging for us to learn from the Department of Tourism that we were named the most popular destination in their visitor poll last year.'' The attendance figure was compiled through a formula that included passenger totals on the Dockyard ferry, Government bus service, total occupancy numbers on the Celebrity cruise ship Meridian , attendance at public concerts, festivals and exhibitions, guest lists at wedding receptions, convention banquets, and statistics gathered from visiting warships, tall ships and commercial traffic.

New public events such as Culturefest also helped to boost numbers, as did the opening of Sparky's family centre and the Victorian shopping mall.

Wedco said it expected plans for a snorkel park, brew pub, water sports centre, children's playground and small hotel to add to the attendance figures in the coming year.