And the revelation has sparked outrage from the Opposition, which claims the money could be better spent on more pressing social problems.

A source close to the publicly-funded faculty allegedthat up to $1 million has been spent on recent upgrades to Shamrock Cottage, the on-campus residence of any sitting College head.

The source claimed the cash was needed to pay for a new upscale kitchen, gym and new furnishings, while extensive work was also carried out within the property grounds, including a new patio area, security system, outside lighting and landscaping.

The source said: "While no hard and fast facts have ever been released, staff were told at a meeting in late August by the Chief Financial and Operations Officer that the old Bermuda Cottages needed constant work and upgrades."

The source claimed that the property had only recently been revamped, and questioned why further expenditure was necessary.

"Bermuda College needs to present the true cost of the president's residence," the source said.

"This must include all costs including linens, china, granite countertops, landscaping . . . After all, taxpayers are footing the bill ? or maybe the tuition fees from hard-working, struggling students are footing the bill. The College kitchens are in desperate need of an overhaul, why does the President's kitchen need another overhaul?"

Yesterday, a College spokeswoman confirmed that the home, located within the grounds of the College, had undergone extensive refurbishment ? and that further improvements were in the pipeline.

"Over the past five years the College has spent just over $400,000 on improvements to Shamrock Cottage, which is provided as accommodation for the Bermuda College president," the spokeswoman said.

"The costs associated with this expense include new furnishings, security, general upkeep of a Bermuda property, an additional bathroom, landscaping and the enclosure of a porch. Future plans include continued landscaping of the property.

"The Board of Governors is responsible for approving all such major projects as it relates to the employ of the College president."

The revelation comes just weeks after news that Government is spending up to $1.5 million upgrading Clifton, the Premier's new official residence, caused a wave of controversy.

The cost of upgrading the "People's House" was condemned by the Opposition while charity group the Salvation Army said the money would have been better spent funding a new homeless shelter.

Last night acting United Bermuda Party leader Michael Dunkley said the cost was just another example of Government mismanagement.

"This Government is developing a propensity not to plan things and taxpayers' money is then wasted ? this appears to be another glaring example of that," he said.

"Certainly the accommodation has to be of a certain standard but that takes planning and accountability of taxpayers' money. As a business person, I am getting sick of this lack of accountability for finances, whether it be housing, Clifton or suspended police officers ? this Government is not dealing with finances in an appropriate way and it's just not acceptable."

His remarks were backed up by Shadow Works & Engineering Minister Patricia Gordon-Pamplin.

"It begs the question, 'how many people existing properties could have been renovated with $400,000?', Mrs. Gordon-Pamplin asked.

"Government seems hell bent on ensuring that all creature comforts are provided for those at the top of the ladder when those on the bottom rung continue to be trampled upon. This is another sad case of failure to priortize the important things ? landscape the College President's house, but leave the Salvation Army shelter to fall into further ruin. Where is the sensitivity of this People's Government and their Social Agenda?"