George's.

A new plan has been unveiled for coping with mounting congestion within King's Square.

It is the work of the Island Transportation Committee and the Corporation of St. George's Streets Committee.

And officials stress it is only a "preliminary plan'', which could be changed.

"We hope that our visitors and residents will bear with us during the critical time,'' said Town Manager Ms Margaret Emmott.

She added: "We need the cooperation of the general public and visitors, and the end result should be a more attractive and less congested town.'' Ms Emmott said work would start on Sunday. It should be complete by May 30.

Key changes include: Cycles will no longer have access into King's Square. New signs will direct them to the public car park behind BELCO; Cycles rented by Ordnance Island cruise ship passengers will be parked overnight at the Dowling's Cycle lot next to King's Square, or the public car park; Two stop signs will be installed by Somers Supermart and Crisson jewellery store in York Street. This should slow down traffic on a very dangerous corner, and ensure safe entry into Bridge Street; Bridge Street will become a one-way system for bikes and cars. Parking in front of the Bank of Bermuda and Bank of Butterfield will remain the same; and A space for the handicapped will be created behind the Town Hall.

Ms Emmott pointed out the changes would be in place Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

She continued by outlining other features of the plan.

As the area before the Town Hall would become pedestrianised, access to Bridge Street via the Square would no longer be available, said Ms Emmott.

Additional seating would be provided in the Square, thanks to the Rotary Club of St. George's, she added.

Water Street, meanwhile, would continue to be closed to traffic from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday to Friday.

This would create a large pedestrianised area within the town, explained Ms Emmott.

Other developments include: A new taxi centre on Ordnance Island for tours. Taxi space will be available as well in front of the White House Tavern; Cars will only be allowed to Ordnance Island to turn around and leave King's Square. The island will be for taxis and tour buses only; The mobile public library will be repositioned by the Convict Bay condominium entrance.