INVESTORS from Sydney have lodged their intention to open a new childcare centre in East Tamworth.
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The project is valued at almost $1 million.
Documents lodged with Tamworth Regional Council have revealed a proposal by Rigate Holdings Pty Ltd to establish a childcare centre on the corner of White and Carthage streets, at the site of the old Challenge Community Services headquarters.
The development application proposes the construction of a long daycare centre for up to 84 children, aged from birth to six years old.
The project is estimated to cost $990,000.
Council documents say the business, to be named Ekidna Childcare Centre, would operate between 7am and 6pm from Monday to Friday.
The proposed centre is expected to employ about 25 casual and permanent staff members.
While it will keep its existing facade, the tendered documents say plans for the centre include renovations inside the building to establish an operational childcare centre and related equipment.
A series of outdoor play areas with fencing and shade sails will be built, along with landscaping and signage around the 3642 metre square block.
There will be 17 car parking spaces on-site along, with 31 off-street parking spaces.
The proposed East Tamworth centre is among a string of childcare services to be planned or established right across the city this year.
The Wirraway Street Early Learning & Kinder centre opened in Taminda in March, with another set to open in the Windmill Downs area.
Meanwhile, construction is also well under way on the East Tamworth Medical Centre on Marius St, which is also set to house childcare centre.
Tamworth Business Chamber president Jye Segboer welcomed the proposal.
He said the childcare boom in Tamworth was an “attractive look” for families looking to relocate to the area.
“I think it’s great for the economy that so many childcare centres are opening up, or continuing to be built or expanded,” he said.
“If you have a good childcare system, it is one of the things families always look for when they’re looking at relocating.
“The more opportunities for child care are all the better for the economy and better for younger families.”
The Leader has attempted to contact Rigate Holdings for comment on the project.
The development application is now before council for approval.