Pioneering nursery plan for Burnley mill site

An application for a change of use for Maltings Mill, in the Sandygate area, has been received by Burnley Council.

A supporting statement submitted by the applicant, Mrs Harker, of Redhouse Close, Clayton-le-Moors, reads: “The vision of this project is to deliver high quality, scaled down, real life play units (e.g. café, supermarket and post office) where children up to the age of six can learn through role play.

“Research has shown this type of play to be a great way to learn at all ages. It stimulates imagination, enhances social development and leadership skills whilst encouraging friendships through cooperation, listening and turn taking. Imagination-based play is a vital activity for our children and issupported within the Early Years curriculum.

“This type of play centre is already being successfully delivered in the South of England but is unique to the North-West area. The directors both live locally and want Burnley to house the first of its type in the area. We will offer pre-defined play sessions, booked online in advance with set numbers per session so that each child can enjoy the experience to the full.

“As each session ends, the play units will be restored to their original state ensuring the next group of children can enjoy the 'wow' factor.

“Every prop will be returned to the right place to stimulate curiosity and inventiveness and this regular cleaning ensures hygienic, well-maintained play areas.

“The play centre should be available for all children to enjoy. With that in mind the directors will engage with local groups and offer separate sessions for children with additional needs.

“The centre will initially be run by the one of the company directors with a further full-time employee. Once the business becomes established the plan will be to work with local colleges to run apprentice schemes. Once at full capacity we estimate the play centre could provide more opportunities with part time/weekend hours.”