THE DEVELOPER of a new Romsey nursery has hailed the borough council's approval of its planning application as a "major milestone" for the town.

Councillors voted unanimously in favour of two new buildings and a nursery at the former Ashfield Bakery site, against the refusal recommended by Test Valley Borough Council's planning officers, on Tuesday, April 29.

According to the developer, Stratland Estates, the two-storey facility on Southampton Road will offer up to 96 nursery places for children aged one to five, featuring “best in class” amenities and a large forest-style outdoor play area.

It is also set to generate over 40 full-time and part-time jobs for residents.

READ MORE: Councillors vote to set aside £200k to help fight climate changeCGI images of the proposed new nursery just outside Romsey. (Image: Stratland Estates)

Sebastian Clarke, the company's commercial director, said: "We are absolutely delighted with this result and want to thank Test Valley Borough Council councillors for their full consideration and support.

"It’s the culmination of a lot of hard work by our team and the many local people who stood with us.”

He continued: “With the new government childcare funding in place and housing numbers rising, demand for nursery places is growing rapidly.

"Our proposed nursery provides a modern, accessible solution for working families in the area."

From September, the government’s April 2024 childcare reforms will offer 30 hours of free childcare per week for children from nine months to five years.

Hampshire County Council recently projected a shortfall of up to 208 nursery places in the Romsey area due to local population growth.

Paul Airey, planning consultant for the project, said: “Members recognised that the strength of local support clearly reflects real parental concerns about the lack of nursery provision.

"This decision is a welcome step toward addressing that gap.”

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Referencing this shortfall, Cllr Parker said: "I remember when we had this application before and I voted against it. Things I think have changed since then.

"We know that we face increased housing allocation in our area [...]  and that will require additional nursery places."

Cllr Dowden said: "I am inundated by parents seeking, from me, why isn't their nursery education sufficient? We've got three [nurseries] in Valley Park [...], but still people are requesting me.

"Who am I to go against that, whether on a planning committee, or whatever [...] What better location for children to be in the countryside, even if they're going into class?"