been rejected as a new site for the Packwood Rest Home.

An inspection last month by the Home's Board of Trustees resulted in the decision to stay put at its Ely's Harbour location.

The inspection of the hotel owned by Deputy Opposition Leader Mr. Walter Roberts is believed to have been set up by the Bank of Bermuda.

Mr. Roberts declined to comment on the situation but Lady Swan, chairman of the Home's Board of Trustees, confirmed the inspection.

"We were approached,'' she said. "Our committee was asked to look at the Somerset Bridge apartments as a possible alternative to our building at the home.'' Lady Swan was referring to approved plans by the Packwood home to double its residential units to 28. The estimated cost of the construction plan is $1.8 million.

Lady Swan said the Board of Trustees concluded the 24-unit hotel was inappropriate as a senior citizens home because it was too close to the road and had too many levels for older citizens.

"We have residents requiring minimal nursing care, some are blind and some are wheelchair bound,'' she said. "We're not a nursing home, but a rest home which must meet certain standards and guidelines.

"The Board of Trustees are committed to the Packwood site. I think it may even be in Dr. Packwood's will that the building had to be used as a residence for senior citizens.'' The Packwood Rest Home's current property is between half an acre and an acre in size and has a small beach. It is now closed.