Demolition work at the former concessions building at Shelly Bay is almost complete.

The building was set to become a restaurant and bar with watersports and beach facilities, but demolition crews moved in last week after Government said the structure was unsafe.

Cheryl-Ann Griffin, an area resident who spoke out against the development, said: “Our objections were not about the restaurant or the building.

“Objections were based on the establishment of a parking lot on well-used picnic space and next to the playground, and the appropriation and commercialisation of Shelly Bay Beach and Park for a private enterprise, thus depriving locals and visitors alike of a free and unhindered space to enjoy summer activities. Concerns were also shared about extended restaurant operation hours.”

It was announced last week that the 70-year-old structure, which was expected to be the home of a new restaurant, had been condemned as unsafe.

Tom Steinhoff, of Shelly Bay Beach House Ltd, had hoped to have the proposed restaurant up and running in time for the summer despite structural problems with the building.

But the restaurant also faced challenges from members of the public.

Protests led the developer to scrap plans to establish a parking area on land next to the Shelly Bay playground.

Ms Griffin said that the protests about the restaurant were unrelated to the condition of the building.

But she added: “It is good to know that this dangerous structure is being removed before a hurricane causes injury or damage to surrounding properties.”

Ms Griffin said she hoped that the government will consider leaving the property largely open as parkland without any commercial development

She added: “It is a popular community and family picnic space for locals and tourists alike and the only structure to be considered would be the establishment of a few washrooms for day use with a plan for regular daily upkeep during the summer months.”

“I feel that Shelly Bay Beach, as one of the very few remaining unfettered public beaches, and the only one on the North Shore, encourages Bermudians to continue their own unique summer culture and tradition of preparing and packing up a picnic lunch or supper to share and enjoy with family and friends or to enjoy a planned weekend of camping.

“For persons who prefer more commercialisation and more amenities there are several other choices of beaches.”