The planned closure of the Strode College Day Nursery has ignited strong reactions from residents in Street and Glastonbury. After operating for 22 years, this well-loved nursery for children aged two to four is slated to shut its doors this summer, despite mounting protests from parents and local supporters.
The nursery is managed by University Centre Somerset (UCS), which oversees several educational institutions in the region, including colleges in Strode, Bridgwater, Cannington, and Taunton. UCS cites financial challenges—rising operational costs and insufficient funding—as the primary reasons behind the difficult decision.
Currently serving 15 children, Strode College Day Nursery has become a vital resource for families, especially amidst a widespread shortage of nursery places. Parents have voiced concerns that finding alternative childcare will be daunting, with waiting lists in local nurseries extending beyond six months.
READ MORE: Travellers’ Site Proposal Between Bridgwater and Highbridge Denied Over Flood Risk
READ MORE: Urgent Safety Measures Needed at Fatal Somerset Crash Site
A UCS spokesperson commented, “We fully understand the community’s concerns regarding the closure. Increasing expenses—covering staff wages, utilities, and necessary resources—have significantly exceeded the government funding we receive for childcare hours. Despite exhaustive efforts to find alternatives, the nursery’s losses have become unsustainable, leaving us with no choice but to close by July 10.”
Parents have taken to social media to express their frustration. One mother, Dani Elle, shared on Facebook, “With nursery waiting lists exceeding six months, losing such a crucial facility is heartbreaking. Finding quality care for our children will be nearly impossible now. We urge the decision-makers to reconsider.”
An online petition organized by Daisy Fahy has garnered over 1,300 signatures, highlighting the nursery’s importance. Fahy emphasizes, “This nursery is more than a building; it’s an essential community service that supports early childhood development during a critical learning phase. Its closure would be devastating for many families.”
As the closure date draws near, UCS assures families that they will receive support during the transition period and that the highest standards of care will be upheld until the nursery closes.