Campaign Urges Re-Think On Pre-School Closure

A campaign has been launched urging a re-think on the closure of a much-loved pre-school in Market Harborough.

It follows the announcement Welland Park Pre-School will shut at the end of August due to financial pressures.

The pre-school is regarded as one of the best in the town and supports over 30 families.

Seven members of staff has been placed at risk of redundancy.

Parents and others have been shocked at the closure announcement and a petition calling for the decision to be reviewed has been signed by over 200 people in a week.

It was set-up by Alex Beeson, whose grandson used to attend the pre-school:

Welland Park Pre-School is to close this summer

Welland Park Principal Pete Leatherland said it was an extremely difficult decision to close the pre-school, saying: “Despite our best efforts, and given the costs associated with running a preschool provision, it is no longer financially viable for us to continue to operate the setting.

“Our priority is the wellbeing of the seven employees who are at risk of redundancy, and we are working closely with them to provide the necessary help and support during the consultation process and beyond if required.

“We have also communicated our decision to the affected parents and carers to give them time to find alternative provision from September 2024; a process which Leicestershire County Council is supporting us with.”

The county council says its records show there are enough places available in Market Harborough to accommodate children currently attending Welland Park Pre-School.