The Government has defended a controversial proposal to develop part of Southlands National Park.

David Burt, the Premier, spoke out in response to questions from the Opposition in the House of Assembly on Friday about a planned restaurant and extensive parking facilities at the southern end of the park.

Linda Smith, the One Bermuda Alliance spokeswoman on youth, social development and seniors, also raised concerns about a separate proposal for the development of a zip-line facility in the park.

The plans have been described as “a troubling example of overdevelopment” by environmental groups.

Asked by Ms Smith what data the Government used when considering the development, Mr Burt replied: “The planning process allows us to examine these things.

“We believe it is important to develop amenities in certain places as we want to make sure that we have more economic activity in this country.

“The Opposition has just asked about what are we doing to increase the working population.

“The way to increase the working population is to make sure that tourists and visitors — as we’re expecting more — have more activities and different things to do.

“Everything will be done in an environmentally responsible way and we look forward to public consultation on this, as it is with any planning application, for these particular matters to advance.”

Ms Smith also asked how much the development would cost the taxpayer.

Mr Burt replied: “I have not been made aware of any government financing that is going towards this particular matter.”

He said he was being asked “very specific questions on something that is not particularly under my remit” and encouraged her to “speak to the minister responsible for public works and minister responsible for tourism”.

The Premier added: “I think maybe we’ll have a tourism investment order going on it but I will endeavour to make sure she gets that information.

“I do not know of any budgetary allocation request to me as Minister of Finance to go forward and support these particular matters.”

In a statement to media released on the same day, Ms Smith questioned the process by which objections to the development could be submitted. The deadline for objections passed on July 4.

She said: “Providing that people saw the advertisements or the news coverage, the public had two weeks to object.

“Residents who have not filed a planning objection in a while may have been put off by the complexity of having to now register with, and use, the planning department’s online portal system or hand deliver their objection to the planning department.

“While investment in Bermuda’s public lands is essential, it is also essential that Bermudians are clear about what is being planned and how our national parks and beaches will be affected.

“A comprehensive management plan is a requirement of the National Parks Act. Where is the management plan?

“Southlands is a unique property with history, rare plants and a fragile ecosystem. It is also a space cherished and frequented by residents who care deeply about preserving it for their enjoyment and those of their future generations.

“There are plenty of brownfield sites that can be repurposed to accommodate the amenities the Government is proposing in its current planning applications.

“Perhaps it would be wise to consider the alternatives.”