Nurseries open at six Lancashire schools under new scheme

Six Lancashire schools have so far opened new nurseries as part of a government programme designed to improve access to free childcare places - and more are now being encouraged to follow suit.

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Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for children and families, Simon Evans, told the Post: "No decisions have been made and we will share the outcome [once] cabinet has considered the consultation and the feedback from the sector."

Tim McLachlan, NDNA chief executive, said the organisation was "delighted" by the schools forum vote in Lancashire.

"This is a sensible decision which recognises the financial pressures that early years providers are under and the detrimental impact any reduction in funding could have on early education and care settings across the county.

"We hope that the cabinet of the council respects the unanimous decision of the schools forum and does not appeal to the secretary of state to overturn it."