Construction of a new nursery in an area of Wishaw could still run beyond its anticipated completion date due to a drainage works delay.
North Lanarkshire Council say works to establish the new nursery at the former community centre in Wishawhill remain on course to be completed by early October but can’t rule out further delays.
Initially, the council’s aim was to construct a new early years facility on Heathery Park but the proposals were subsequently dropped when it was discovered there were significant drainage problems on the land. A decision was then made to refurbish the Wishawhill community centre building to host the new nursery.
Building work was originally meant to begin in February but a contractor was only installed in April with a completion date set for October.
Somewhat Ironically, it’s a drainage issue that could mean a further delay at the new site.
In a recent update, North Lanarkshire Council’s Education Service have advised Motherwell South East and Ravenscraig councillor Nathan Wilson that the works do remain on target for the completion date of October 7.
However, it’s been conceded that a delay in securing Scottish Water approval for on-site drainage works could push the completion timetable beyond then. The council’s contractor for the project is taking steps to mitigate any possible further postponements.
The local authority did confirm that a new 13-space car park for staff and families at the nursery has been formed, it’s part of the approved planning permission.
Councillor Wilson said: “The new nursery that is currently under construction in Wishawhill is a massively important project in the area and it is essential for local families to have access to an early years centre on their doorstep.
“The lengthy delays to the programme have been deeply disappointing, particularly when considering the council’s other eight new nursery buildings for 1140 hours are now ready, with Wishawhill the only one that remains incomplete.
“The prospect of yet another delay is a cause of further concern and it would be hugely frustrating if 2022 were to end with the new nursery still not finished.
“Confirmation that the car parking infrastructure has now been formed is encouraging and I hope that there will be positive news about the successful conclusion of the nursery construction works in the next few months.”
*Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.
