Source: http://slough.gov.uk/news/articles/21925.aspx

Work has started to create a state-of-the-art new early years centre for Chalvey.

The new centre is being created by refurbishing part of the Thames Valley Community Centre (TVCC), at The Green, Chalvey, meaning the current early years centre can move out of their old dilapidated buildings.

This work is the first part of a major regeneration project for the Chalvey area the next stages of which will include a new community hub on the TVCC site, the demolition of the derelict Chalvey Play Centre and other environmental improvements.

Councillor James Swindlehurst, commissioner for neighbourhoods and renewal, and councillor Natasa Pantelic, commissioner for education and children, took a tour of the site today (26 October 2010) to see the building fully stripped out, ready for work to begin.

The new centre will have eight main rooms – including a special educational needs room – toilets, offices and new outside play areas with:

• climbing areas
• sand and mud pits
• planting areas
• raised vegetable gardens
• water troughs
• special flooring and grass areasshade sails to provide protection in sunny weather.

The plans have been created in conjunction with the head and other teachers at the school.

The £1million project also includes new parking and a new, improved entrance from Ladbrooke Road – so the centre has a separate dedicated entrance from the rest of the community centre.

Councillor James Swindlehurst, commissioner for neighbourhoods and renewal, said: “The early years centre is an integral part of nursery and education provision in Chalvey but for too long they have had to survive in temporary portakabins and buildings no longer fit for purpose.

“When we consulted local residents on our plans to regenerate the Chalvey area they said having a new, up to date early years centre was very important.

“We listened to local residents and have brought forward the £1m refurbishment of part of the community centre to house the new early years centre. Work to transform the buildings begins this week.

“The plans are fantastic and I know children in Chalvey will benefit from this for many years to come.”

Councillor Natasa Pantelic, commissioner for education and children, said: “Early years is the foundation for a child’s educational journey and paves the way for achievements throughout their life.

“Chalvey Early Years Centre has been struggling with buildings that were no longer fit for purpose and I am so excited they will be getting such state of the art facilities.

“I was very impressed when I first saw the designs, as the centre has been thought out from a child’s perspective, considering carefully how children will use it and what will work for them so they have the best and most stimulating start to their educational lives.

“I am looking forward to welcoming the children into their new accommodation in the New Year.”

The project is expected to be complete in January 2011.