• Williamstown, Altona, Laverton Star

By Bridie Byrne

25th November 2008 11:06:54 AM

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HOBSONS Bay City Council will appeal to the State Government for a $100,000 grant that would provide a local childcare centre with 10 extra places.

But the next council must approve the project before an application to the Children’s Capital Fund in April is made.

The grant would allow the Range Children’s Centre to cut their waiting lists.

The centre will contribute $70,000 to the project.

A design brief was submitted in August to Brand Architects to consider the most cost-effective options.

The centre and council agreed to a building cost of about $300,000.

Council will cover the remaining $130,000.

Williamstown North Ward councillor Peter Hemphill said the extension was vital with the possible closure of ABC Learning Centres.

“There was another one in NSW that was linked to ABC and it collapsed,” he said.

“It’s important because we still need to provide service to young families.”

He said the cost comparisons between the two centres were staggering.

“This centre charges $55 a day and ABC charges $85,” he said.

“I think that is quite interesting given that one has gone belly up.

“It does say something for local community run centres that they can be much more efficient in providing services.”

Cr Hemphill said there were also plans drawn up for the Presbyterian Church site to become a childcare centre.

Williamstown Ward Cr Angela Altair said the grant would help provide excellent care in one of the municipalities fastest growing areas.

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