Axe-threat nurseries to remain open until September

Last year senior councillors in Wakefield agreed that running three nurseries, set up to help families in deprived areas of the Wakefield district, was no longer financially viable.

They agreed in principle that the three Neighbourhood Nurseries would have to close following the withdrawal of Government funding. However, parents, carers and nursery staff were given the opportunity to submit sustainable proposals for the management and running of the nurseries and have until the end of February to submit their proposals.

Yesterday the authority announced if there are no viable submissions for the future running of the nurseries then parents and children will be given a six month period to find alternate childcare provision.

The nurseries affected by the proposals are: Airedale Neighbourhood Nursery, Ferry Fryston, Pomfret Neighbourhood Nursery, in Pontefract, and St Swithun’s Neighbourhood Nursery in Eastmoor, Wakefield

Coun Olivia Rowley, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “We are very pleased that some parents are trying to keep their nursery open and we are continuing to work with them, offering business support and help.

“In the event that the submissions are not viable we will keep the Neighbourhood Nurseries open until the beginning of September.

“This six-month period will enable staff, parents and the children sufficient time to find alternative nursery provision if, in the end, the Neighbourhood Nurseries do have to close.

“We remain hopeful that a future for the nurseries can be secured.”