An Aldridge nursery's hopes for expansion have been put on hold after Walsall Council planners deferred a crucial decision, citing significant concerns about parking and traffic management.
Little Angels Day Nursery, located on the Little Aston Road, had submitted plans to increase its capacity from 52 to 70 children while extending its operating hours. The proposal also included the creation of two new full-time jobs, representing a substantial investment in local childcare provision.
Council Raises Red Flags Over Parking Pressures
During a tense planning committee meeting, councillors expressed serious reservations about the impact additional families and staff would have on an already congested area. The primary sticking point centred around whether the nursery could provide adequate off-street parking to prevent dangerous on-road parking situations.
Highway officials had initially recommended approval of the scheme, but committee members pushed back strongly. Conservative councillor for Aldridge Central and South, Keith Sears, voiced the committee's collective concern: "We've got to think about the safety of the children and the residents. The parking situation there is already difficult, and adding more vehicles without proper provision could create real hazards."
Nursery's Case for Expansion
Representing the nursery, planning consultant Richard Phillips made an impassioned case for approval. He emphasised the growing demand for quality childcare in the area and the nursery's commitment to addressing parking concerns.
"This expansion would help meet significant local demand for childcare places," Mr Phillips told the committee. "We've proposed measures to manage drop-off and collection times more effectively, and we believe we can operate successfully within the existing highway framework."
What Happens Next?
The planning committee has deferred their final decision pending further investigation into the parking and highway safety implications. Council officers have been instructed to conduct additional assessments and work with the nursery to find potential solutions.
This delay leaves both the nursery and local families awaiting clarity on whether the much-needed expansion can proceed. The matter is expected to return to the planning committee within the coming months, where a final verdict will be reached on this contentious local issue.
