Northside crèche closure a ‘real blow’ to families

Thirty-eight children are without a pre-school place as the New Horizons montessori and crèche facility in Blackpool has closed suddenly.

It is understood that parents with children registered at the pre-school were informed late last week that it would not reopen until new management was in place at the preschool, which is based at the St Vincent’s campus on St Mary’s Road and was expected to cater for up to 44 children.

However, new management has not been secured in time for the new term, and the owner released a statement on Friday to parents, saying: “Thank-you for your patience during this time.

“By way of update, the intended transfer of New Horizons pre-school to new management is no longer proceeding.

“Unfortunately, however, due to circumstances beyond my control, the pre-school is closing with immediate effect.

“All deposits that were received will be returned via post within the next week.

“I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for placing your trust in me over the years.”

Cork City Childcare are understood to be helping parents of children affected by the closure to try and secure new places elsewhere, but the sudden nature of the closure has left many parents very stressed.

It comes following the sudden closure this time last year of the Before 5 childcare service in Churchfield, affecting more than 100 children. The service is under new management but has not yet reopened as new owners Northside Community Enterprises are seeking Government funding to bring the facility in line with building regulations.

Cork North Central People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Mick Barry said: “This is a real blow to the parents of these children.

“It’s terrible when you have pre-schooling all lined up and then it’s snatched away from your child at the last minute.

“It’s happening far too often — here on the northside of Cork city we had Before 5 last year, this year New Horizons.

“The State needs to take charge of pre-school education and childcare and guarantee continuity of service.”