Historic Essex church in Saffron Walden to become a nursery for 52 children, addressing local childcare shortage.
The plans involve fixing the building and adding a small extension. The windows need changes for access, and kids will have outdoor play areas with fences to keep them safe.
Local nurseries are all full and have no extra space right now. The new nursery will help by providing three learning areas to accommodate kids aged six months to four years. Support spaces will also be there.
The church has been empty since 2023. The nursery will give it new life and help the town a lot. It provides needed preschool spots, offers community benefits, and will improve education there.
Nursery spots are scarce in town. Government childcare changes arrive in 2025 and they will likely increase demand. More places for young children are needed, so the town must act quickly to get these places.