News that a popular community nursery in Ayrshire is to close has been met with dismay.
Coylton Community Nursery, based in the Claude Hamilton Hall, will close its doors for the final time on Thursday, December 22.
The closure brings to an end an association of childcare provision at the hall stretching back a staggering 53 years.
It’s understood that the nursery is no longer in a position to offer child care provision due to “new opportunities” being created in the hall.
In addition, a section of the hall is now needed for the new village Post Office.
Senior staff at the nursery said the decision to close the nursery was made with a ‘heavy heart’ and ‘much regret.’
A statement of their social media page read: “The committee and staff of Coylton Community Nursery have decided that the nursery will close on 22nd December.
“There are a number of factors that have led to this decision and it has not been taken lightly.
“The delivery of early learning and childcare has evolved considerably in the 53 years the service has been operating in the Claude Hamilton Hall and with the recent new opportunities being created in the hall, the building is no longer able to support delivery of the early learning and childcare for the children.”
Their statement adds: “We would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone for the incredibly kind reaction we have had on the announcement of the Nursery closure.”
Scores of parents and guardians whose children attended the service, will now have to find alternative childcare provision going forward.
The announcement of the closure has been met with disappointment by scores of parents and guardians.
Janette Stewart posted: “Both my children went to this nursery and it’s where they started their education.
“I’m shocked at it having to close! So disappointed that the hall can no longer house the community nursery. Thank you all for your time and care. Such a sad loss.”
Sarah Wyllie said: “So sorry and disappointed to hear this. I went to this nursery as a child when it was the playgroup.
“Such a shame the hall is now unsuitable after the nursery being there for such a long, long time. Thank you Sally and Anne for your hard work and dedication in making it such a special wee place.”
And Joan Aitken posted: “Think it will be safe to say that this wee nursery touched almost every family in this village over the 53 years it was open.
“It’s more than sad that it’s closing. I understand why it has to close but that won’t make the void it leaves any easier to accept.”
Elaine Agnew added: “So sorry to hear this. The community nursery has been a wonderful asset for Coylton, and over the years hundreds of children, and parents, have benefitted hugely from the experience.
“Many lasting friendships were formed here and it was a great first step in children’s educational development. Thank you so much for everything you have achieved over the years.”
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