Nursery closure fears prompts protest
BBCParents concerned over the possible closure of nursery schools in South Tyneside have held a protest outside the council offices.
The authority has launched a consultation on its childcare services, which includes the possibility of closing its South Tyneside Accredited Network for Learning in the Early Years (Stanley's) nurseries.
Campaigners fear for the future of the 10 publicly owned facilities, in which more than 400 children are currently enrolled, and an estimated 200 people took part in a march through South Shields to the Town Hall.
South Tyneside Council said as yet no decision had been made, and its focus was on ensuring children and families could continue to access support.
The response has been "overwhelming" campaigners say, with a petition against any potential closures attracting more than 5,000 signatures.
Joanna Taylor, whose child is attending nursery, said: "I'm just scared, worried for my child that this could potentially be done without any parental or community involvement."
Nursery worker Kayleigh Wilkinson, who is also a parent, said: "For us the parents campaign has been outstanding.
"It's really given us hope that we can make a difference with this."
A review of the nurseries was first agreed by the previous Labour-led administration but Reform UK, which now controls the council, said it will continue with the consultation.
A spokesperson for South Tyneside said: "Discussions with staff and trade unions are under way and no decisions have been made at this stage.
"Our focus is on ensuring children and families can continue to access the support they need in their local communities, including looking at how services can be delivered in the most effective and accessible way."
