A play centre has announced its sudden closure saying it's 'no longer viable' in the current economic climate.
Families have described the centre, which is at Stanley Square, in Sale, Trafford, as 'amazing' and were shocked to see a notice on the website on Tuesday informing customers that the place was 'closing with immediate effect'.
"We regret to announce that Explore & Play is closing with immediate effect," it said. "Sadly the current economic climate means the business is no longer viable. We’d like to thank our amazing team for all their hard work and our customers for their loyal support."
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News of the closure was shared on Facebook, where parents spoke of their disappointment.
"This is so sad. Was an amazing place," said one mum. While another added: "Oh no, it's our favourite place." And a third said: "How sad for them."
The play centre opened in 2021 and featured different zones to encourage learning through play.
One of the favourites was the Imagination Village, where children could role play with the doctor's surgery, a shop, a house, a garage and a cafe.
It also hosted sessions including baby sensory classes, school holiday activities and children's birthday parties.
Mum Natasha Naveed told the Manchester Evening News: "As a mum of two, I found Explore and Play to be the perfect place for us in terms of the cost, location and the various play areas and opportunities for both my children.
"It was a safe place with friendly staff and excellent food where we made some wonderful memories. It’s extremely sad to be losing such a wonderful play opportunity in the area."
The closure comes as another Trafford play centre revealed it is introducing a 'pay what you can option' to support families throughout the cost of living crisis.
The scheme, at The Hideaway, inside Partington Shopping Centre, is understood to be among the first of its kind in the UK.
A charitable educational family play centre, it has a Post Office, a Tesco and more and has just opened a second role play village, which includes a doctors, vets, and a large playhouse.
There's also a café available for all visitors, serving hot and cold meals in a Noah’s Ark themed family restaurant.
The Hideaway, part of local charity Hidden Treasure Trust, hosts a number of other projects supporting families and local residents, including the Hope Centre – one of the Trafford Community Support hubs.
The option for visitors to pay what they can will apply Monday to Friday and, on Saturdays, a minimum £5 donation will apply.
Ruth Lancey, CEO of the charity, said: “Making The Hideaway a place for every family to access and enjoy has always been a priority, but the introduction of a pay what you can policy will truly make it available for everyone.
"I’m so excited to open up our fantastic resources to all, and I’m confident that those who can donate more will choose to do so. We know it’s a bold move, but at a time when so many families are struggling, I’m excited to do something different.”
The M.E.N has attempted to contact the owners of Explore and Play.
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