Environment and Sports Minister Glenn Blakeney has announced the team to hold inquiries into the 452 objections and representations to the Draft Bermuda Plan 2008.

Bruce Perinchief, Janet Bradshaw and Cheryl Wade will be joined by Henry Ming and Germano Bothelo as alternate members.

Mr. Blakeney told the House: "The tribunal will hear and make recommendations on all objections and representations. When the tribunal has reported to me, I will make comments which will, together with the final plan, be laid before the Legislature for approval."

The Draft Bermuda Plan 2008 Planning Statement and Draft Bermuda Plan 2008 Zoning Maps were brought into effect on June 6, 2008. The Draft Bermuda Plan 2008 covers the entire Island with the exception of the City of Hamilton. During the public consultation period 452 objections and representations were received, said Mr. Blakeney. Every submission is being reviewed by Technical Officers.

The Minister added: "Where possible, technical officers are working with objectors to resolve objections. All objections and representations will be presented to the Tribunal who will make their recommendations. Agendas and tribunal information will be published at a later date."

All information pertaining to the Draft Bermuda Plan 2008, the objections and representations received and the tribunal process is available to the public in digital format on the Department of Planning's website and in hard copy at the Department of Planning.

The Department of Planning has prepared guidance notes to assist the public as they prepare to present their objections to the Tribunal, said Mr. Blakeney. He said technical officers continue to be available to assist the public in person, by phone and by e-mail.