Kids Planet unveils latest nursery

Barclays-backed Kids Planet Day Nurseries has opened a £1.3m nursery in Prestwich which will cater for 126 children and create around 40 jobs.

Kids Planet was founded in September 2008 by Clare Roberts and her father John Hoban. After acquiring two nurseries in Warrington and Widnes in 2008, the firm has since opened a further four day nurseries at Beamont, Bridge Farm Crewe, Hale and Lymm.

Clare Roberts, chief executive, said: "Many things have changed within the childcare industry which is now a way of life, a far cry from the days when friends or family would turn their nose up at the idea of leaving children to go to work.

"There's now a need for parents to find nurseries that not only offer a great environment for their children but are also flexible enough to meet their own needs.

"We are really excited to open our first purpose-built nursery in Prestwich which has given us much more design scope. It's also great to be creating jobs for the local economy at a time when many people are struggling to find employment.

"Our aim is to continue expanding the business over the next few years with the continued support of Barclays, who are an integral part of our future growth plans"

Stuart Stocks, Barclays business manager, said: "It is essential we support businesses like Kids Planet which are vital for a prosperous local economy. Childcare remains a growth industry and with the impressive new facility in Prestwich plus the recent acquisition in Crewe, Clare and her father John are proving they have the appetite and confidence to invest and are well positioned for further growth as they capitalise on increased demand for quality childcare places."