The Corporation of Hamilton has waived the wharfage fee for goods coming in related to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's redevelopment.

The announcement came at its second public meeting, which also heard progress on the waterfront development and plans to place utility lines below ground in North Hamilton.

Common Councillor Dennis Tucker said the redevelopment was expected to take three years and the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) estimated it would result in approximately $300,000 of wharfage fees.

He added that waiving the fees would be a "gesture of good will".

BHB is teaming up with the private sector for the $315 million upgrade as part of a plan to bring the ailing hospital to modern-day standards. Construction is due to start late next year, and is aimed to be completed by late 2013.

BHB deputy CEO Venetta Symonds said: "I would like to extend my gratitude on behalf of Bermuda Hospitals Board for the Corporation's waiving of wharfage fees for goods imported for the KEMH redevelopment project. This project is a national priority and one of the largest capital projects undertaken in Bermuda, and the Corporation's decision will assist in controlling costs."