A 100-unit development for financially-disadvantaged seniors has been officially opened by the Bermuda Housing Trust (BHT).

The development was named Dr. Cann Park, in honour of the late Eustace Cann.

A former medical doctor and Member of Parliament, Dr. Cann served in many advisory capacities at the King Edward Memorial Hospital, and stood on the selection committee of the Nursing Assistants' Training School. He dedicated a significant part of his life to education, and also served as chairman of Sandys Secondary School before he died in 1963 at age 58.

"It is by this permanent acknowledgement in naming this development on his behalf, that Dr. Cann's contributions can be remembered, honoured and emulated by generations to come," said a BHT spokesperson.

Dr. Cann Park is located on Sea Express Lane in Southampton.

Last Thursday's opening was attended by the Cann family, BHT members, Government officials and project sponsor, the Bank of Bermuda Foundation.

"We are extremely pleased with the support that the Trust has received in the donation of significant funds from Bank of Bermuda Foundation, extremely favourable lending terms from Bank of Bermuda and generous provision of land from the Government for this seniors' development.

"Contributions such as these not only represent a commitment from a cross-section of Bermuda's stakeholders but also the successes that can be derived from a combined private/public sector initiative. We are very grateful for the shared vision by our partners in making this a reality."

Groundbreaking took place in April 2006. The first residents moved in a year later.

"We are impressed by the achievement of the Bermuda Housing Trust in completing Dr. Cann Park and the significant contribution to easing the accommodation needs of our seniors," said Bank of Bermuda CFO Nigel Crow. "Bank of Bermuda has had confidence in the success of this plan from the beginning and are encouraged that our financial support to the bricks and mortar of the project represent a meaningful solution to the lives of our seniors."

Bank of Bermuda Foundation director and secretary David Lang, added: "[Thursday's] completion of Dr. Cann Park is of significant benefit to Bermuda and our senior citizens. Bank of Bermuda Foundation committed its support to the Bermuda Housing Trust because of the value that this project provided in meeting the needs of those who worked tirelessly and dedicated their lives in building the success we enjoy as a country today."

He continued: "Dr. Cann Park is a tremendous step toward securing a stable and comfortable future for all of Bermuda's senior citizens."