Public Consultation Begins on Draft Bermuda Plan 2018

Home Affairs Minister Walter Roban today unveiled the Draft Bermuda Plan 2018 for public consultation.

Speaking at a news conference Mr Roban said the plan calls for improved sidewalks around schools and “more farmers’ markets that we hope will sell more healthy food”.

“Local food production in community gardens, home gardens, school gardens and through alternative means such as hydroponics, vertical farming, aqua farming and aquaponics will also be encouraged and supported,” said Mr Roban.

The plan also includes a host of ideas for neighbourhood improvement.

Residents were also urged to have their say by reviewing the plan to make an informed assessment. The public consultation period is now open until March 15, 2019.

The Bermuda Plan also includes strategies to protect agriculturally sensitive areas with plans to designate new areas of conservation.

The Minister noted that the plan also covers “Bermuda’s unique cultural heritage” and “issues of climate change, and the need to incorporate sustainable design principles”.

“The Bermuda Plan 2008 shall cease to have effect, except for those planning applications submitted to the Department of Planning prior to 3 December.

“All planning applications submitted on or after 3rd December 2018 will be subject to the policies of the Draft Bermuda Plan 2018,” he added.

*Minister Roban with (left to right) Assistant Planner Matthew Trott, Planner Kenny Campbell, Senior Planning Officer Julie Marshall & Acting Director for the Department of Planning Chris Bulley*

“The Draft Bermuda Plan 2018 comprises a policy document and zoning maps. It sets out the planning policies and land use zonings based on the future needs of the Island and how to best accommodate development in a sustainable and responsible manner over the next 10 to 15 years.”

The plan is based on three strategies – a development strategy to accommodate new buildings and land uses, a conservation strategy to protect ecologically sensitive areas and habitats and the Island’s unique cultural heritage, and a community strategy to foster healthier, stronger communities.

The Minister noted that it is “the product of a significant amount of research and consultation with the public, key stakeholders and technical officers”.

“There is a further opportunity to provide input into the Draft Plan, prior to it becoming final, during the three and a half month public consultation period which starts on 3rd December 2018.

There will also be exhibition booths at venues in the City of Hamilton, Dockyard and the Town of St George’s with technical officers on hand to answer questions about the Draft Bermuda Plan 2018.

Residents were also urged to have their say by reviewing the plan to make an informed assessment and submit objections.

The public consultation period is now open until March 15, 2019. Two computers are also available for public use in the Department of Planning reception area.

More information can be found on the Planning website here.