A PRESCHOOL which faced imminent closure earlier this year has found a new home.
Longham Community Pre-School faced an uncertain future after the United Reformed Church in Ham Lane was put on the market.
Following months of searching, it has now found a new home.
Now based in West Parley Sports Club in Christchurch Road, the school has also had a name change to reflect the location change and will be called Parley Community Pre School.
Joint manager, Leanne Backley, said: “We are delighted that we have been thrown a lifeline by West Parley Parish Council so we can remain open.
“The location is fantastic and we are so excited for the future. We will be able to take the children on walks into the woodland area, we have large fields where we can hold community events too.”
Read more: Longham preschool may cease to exist after church closes its doors
However, the new “forever home” is in disrepair and redevelopment is expected to cost more than £500,000 so a fundraiser has been set up.
“The pre-school needs to raise funds to go towards the refurbishment and would be so grateful for any donations https://gofund.me/e4f02af4,” Leanne added.
“The children will massively benefit from the building works as we are able to put into place facilities specifically to benefit the children.”
Mark Barber, chairman of Parley Parish Council which offered the sports club to the preschool, said he is “delighted” to offer the facilities.
“Sadly, our community building has been closed for several years while a sustainable future and refurbishment proposal was established.
“We now have a clear direction and will be re-opening part of the building to accommodate the preschool from the new school year.
“This is the first step towards a regenerated community hub for residents, affiliated sport teams and of course the Pre School staff and families. This is an exciting time for all.”
As reported, the United Reformed Church decided to sell the building due to an ageing congregation and difficulty in maintaining the church.
Revd Dr Romilly Micklem, Convenor of the Wessex Synod Trust, said the church is “delighted” the preschool has a new home.
She added: “We are of course very sorry that the 60-year association with Longham URC will come to an end in July.
“However, we rejoice that the pre-school will be able to continue its important work in the community. This is truly a prayer answered.”
- To make a donation to the new school, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-our-community-preschool?member=25265041&utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer
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