Parents win battle to keep university nursery open

The University of Bradford previously planned to close the nursery on 31 July as part of cost-cutting measures

Campaigners have hailed a decision by the University of Bradford to reverse the planned closure of its on-campus nursery.

In March, 100 families who use the Laisteridge Lane facility were told the university could no longer afford to fund the service as it needed to make at least £13m in savings.

After the university announced a 31 July closure date for the nursery, which is rated "outstanding" by Ofsted, 1,250 people signed a petition to save it.

Following a consultation, the university said it had "listened carefully to all parties" and had agreed to keep it open.

Several local MPs backed the campaign to save the nursery, which was established in 1992 for staff and students and later opened up to the wider community.

Half the current parents who use the facility are members of the public, while 34% are students and 16% university employees.

Dr Jinan Rabbee, one of the campaign organisers. said: "I think everyone's just really over the moon.

"We're all really pleased that our children will continue to go to a nursery that we really are proud to be a part of."

The university's nursery will now face periodic reviews

Dr Rabbee said the university had set up a team to support the nursery, with the service increasing fees to help make ends meet.

"I'd just like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported us," she said.

Dave Harris, the university's director of people, culture and wellbeing, said: "The decision to consult on the future of the nursery was not one we took lightly.

"We have listened carefully to all parties, not least parents and carers who we know really value the outstanding childcare service."

He added: "The process has enabled us to suggest a number of changes to make the nursery financially sustainable and these will now be implemented and reviewed periodically."

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