Progressive Labour Party senator Renee Ming has called on the Bermuda Government to engage in more public consultation over the St George’s hotel development.

Ms Ming welcomed the news that the development had reached the lease stage saying she remained optimistic that ground would be broken in June.

But in a press statement released this morning she claimed that business owners had been asked to vacate the food concession at Fort St Catherine to make way for the project resulting in job losses.

“ We remain concerned, however, that the promised consultation with the people of St. George’s has not happened,” Ms Ming said.

“With questions surrounding access to the beach, the fort and the potential impact on the area residents, this consultation must occur as promised, as we move forward.

“This consultation is particularly timely and necessary with the news of Bermudian business owners being asked to vacate the food concession at Fort St. Catherine to make way for the project, resulting in the closure of that business and loss of jobs by Bermudians.

“The people of St. George’s must be kept abreast of changes that can impact on employment, the environment and quality of life in the area.

“Our buy-in will serve to strengthen support within St. George’s and enhance our ability as a community to assist with making both the project and the eventually completed hotel property a success.”