A ‘LIFELINE’ nursery which cares for almost 100 children has until the end of today to ensure it will be able to remain open - but its manager admits they’re now holding out for a Christmas miracle.
Shining Stars Day Care and Nursery has been based in the grounds of St Helen’s Primary School in Monk Bretton since the pandemic.
It is run by Katie Harris and owner Amanda Goodier, who were told that they would have to leave their current premises earlier this year and had set out plans to move to another unit at Carlton Industrial Estate - and they were hopeful this would ensure the nursery would remain open.
However, the pair were dealt a devastating blow last month after being told their plans were to be rejected due to concerns around parking.
They resubmitted plans to the council last week but they are not set to go to the planning board until next month - which is past today’s crucial deadline.
Katie told the Chronicle: “We’re just waiting for a miracle now.
“We have until today for a decision to be made.
“The plans were resubmitted last week and we’ve been told that they’re going to take it to a panel meeting but we’re up against it.”
The nursery has the site at St Helen’s until Easter, but Katie says they need to know if the plans are to be approved by today as Ofsted - who can take up to three months - will need to inspect it.
“To be honest if we haven’t got an answer today then we’re screwed,” she said.
“It’s no good finding out next month because we don’t know when it will be.
“Ofsted need to inspect the new site and that could take up to 12 weeks.
“We’re going to start losing families.
“If someone said to us that it was going to be passed then that’d be great but that’s just not happening.
“We have until Easter, but we can’t extend that any further.”
Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, has confirmed the plans will go beforea planning meeting.
He said: “We understand how important this application is to Shining Stars and the families they serve, and we’re committed to supporting all applicants through the planning process.
“Every application is carefully considered before a decision is made.
“Shining Stars Nursery have recently provided additional information relating to the application.
“We have consulted our Highways colleagues about these revisions and the application will be heard at the Planning and Regulatory Board.
“We remain dedicated to working proactively with Shining Stars Nursery throughout this process and have looked at other potentially more suitable locations, to allow the nursery to continue to operate.”
But Katie says she feels she is being ‘fobbed off’ by the council.
“We just don’t have time for this,” she said.
“I just feel that we’re being fobbed off by Barnsley Council.
“I feel like no-one is helping us there.”
