Plans to convert a large office building in St David’s into a new home for seniors have been submitted for consideration more than a year after the project was announced.

The Government revealed in November 2023 that it would work with developers to convert Channel House, on Longfield Road in Southside, into a residential facility for seniors.

Recently submitted plans proposed extensive interior renovations of the property with the addition of a single-floor extension to create a 45-bedroom facility intended to house up to 57 seniors.

The building would feature a new elevator, shared community and recreation areas, a medical support room, kitchen and laundry facilities.

The project would also include the creation of two new parking spaces at the site.

Channel House was built by the US Navy in 1942 as a military security building and renovated in 1990 and 1999.

The building subsequently housed the Government’s Information and Digital Technologies Department.

When the change of use was announced, Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the former Minister of Public Works, said the Government ought to convert the site for seniors to help address the challenges of the island’s ageing population.

He invited developers to put forward submissions, stating that along with its strategic location, the building had the potential to become a “cornerstone” in the Government’s mission to address the changing needs of seniors.

Colonel Burch added: “We see Channel House as a symbol of opportunity and hope for seniors in Bermuda.”

He said the request for submissions was “a call to action, an invitation to the best and brightest minds to come forward with innovative ideas that will enhance the quality of life for our seniors”.

He said it would aim to offer rent at reasonable rates for seniors to live independently.

During an update last July, Colonel Burch said the proposal had seen an exciting level of interest and the Bermuda Land Management Company would work creatively to support the project.