Edinburgh hospital nursery to close

The decision to close Acorns Nursery, based on the grounds of Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, was taken by the previous owners Just learning because of concerns that the five-year construction of a new hospital for children next to the setting would be disruptive.

The 78-place nursery, which is open to children of hospital staff and the community, is expected to close at the end of November, leaving 23 members of staff without jobs.

Acorns Nursery was originally owned by Careshare before Just Learning bought the Scottish nursery group nine years ago.

The hospital nursery, along with Just Learning's other brands, Careshare and Nunu, are now owned by Busy Bees, who acquired the nursery group in August. However, Acorns Nursery still continues to trade under the Careshare name.

A letter to parents from Busy Bees said, 'Following consultation with NHS Lothian, it is with great regret that I have to formally advise you of the proposed closure of the nursery on 30 November 2012.

'As you may be aware, plans are in place to build a new children's hospital and department of neurosciences on the car park adjacent to the nursery. The extent of this development means it will no longer be viable for us to operate a nursery in its current location. The extensive building works are in such close proximity to the nursery building that the disruption caused may compromise not only the children's well-being but also their safety.'

A spokesperson for Busy Bees claimed that the nursery group investigated the option of reversing the decision to close Acorns Nursery, but that it was not possible.

'The decision to surrender the lease for the nursery was taken prior to Busy Bees' purchase of the Careshare nurseries. Busy Bees has thoroughly investigated the option of reversing the decision but has sadly concluded that this is not an option. This is a very difficult time for everyone concerned and we will do our utmost to support the parents of the children affected, and the staff who will be supported in finding alternative employment.

'We have several first-rate nurseries in the area and parents are welcome to visit these provisions to discuss their childcare requirements. It will be business as usual for the nursery until the end of November with the usual high standards of childcare.'

NHS Lothian has confirmed that the land currently occupied by the nursery will be incorporated into the plans for the new childrens' hospital.

Alan Boyter, director of HR and organisational development for NHS Lothian, said, 'The private nursery operator has taken the decision to close the nursery at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. The land currently occupied by the nursery will be incorporated into the plans for the project.

'NHS Lothian will provide advice and support for any of our staff whose working arrangements may be affected by the closure of the nursery.'

Staff and parents of Acorns Nursery have launched a campaign, along with a Facebook page - Save Acorns Nursery - to fight against the closure of the setting. They hope to gain support from local MPs and start a petition.

Michele Ross, a parent whose daughter attends the nursery, said, 'We were only told about the closure of the nursery on Thursday, which doesn't give us much time to find alternative provision. The settings nearest to Acorns Nursery don't have any places and many of them don't open until 8am, when some parents have to start work, whereas Acorns Nursery opens at 7.30am.

'Closing the nursery is a total waste. Building works are already taking place on the hospital site and no disruption has been caused to the setting.'

She went on to say that nursery staff have claimed that they were not consulted about the loss of their jobs.