Parents save one nursery from closure, but lose the battle over two others

Last year, Wakefield Council announced it was considering the future of Airedale Neighbourhood Nursery, St Swithun’s Neighbourhood Nursery in Eastmoor, and Pomfret Neighbourhood Nursery in Pontefract, Wakefield, following the withdrawal of Government funding.

The council needs to make savings of £67m, and says it can no longer afford to continue to spend £171,000 each year subsidising the nurseries.

Parents, carers and staff were invited to submit proposals to take over the running of the settings in November.

A successful application was submitted by Pomfret Woodland Community Group, made up of parents, staff and residents to manage the Pomfret Neighbourhood Nursery.

No viable proposals were put forward for the St Swithun’s Neighbourhood Nursery and Airedale Neighbourhood Nursery, which will close in September as planned.

Speaking on behalf of the Pomfret Woodland Community Group, Janine Hayes and Saima Sherburn said, ‘We are pleased to have reached an agreement with the council, who we would like to thank for supporting us through this difficult process. We are delighted that a much needed and valuable nursery remains in the community.’

Councillor Olivia Rowley, cabinet member for children and young people, said, ‘I am delighted that the future of the nursery has been secured. This agreement means that nursery provision will continue to be available to local parents.

Commenting on the closure of the other two nurseries, she said, ‘This is not an easy option and we know it will cause distress and upset to families using these nurseries. But the Government cuts mean we have to reduce spending - we have no choice.

‘Our first and foremost priority will be to support the families and children affected, and we are fully committed to helping them all find alternative childcare.

‘Support will be offered to every family and officers will work with them to minimise any disruption to the parents and the children.’