AMBITIOUS plans have been set in place to create a new building to house Steam Mills Under Fives playgroup, as their current building begins to deteriorate.

The playgroup, which is adjacent to Steam Mills Primary School, was formerly Rising Fives, but planners have warned that the building they are housed in will need replacing.

Manager of the playgroup, Marie Ridgeway, explained the group's predicament to the

Review: "We are a charity playgroup adjacent to Steam Mills Primary School, providing childcare and education for three and four-year-old children from a wide ranging section of this community. 

"We are open from 9am until 3pm during term time and can accommodate up to 20 children on a session. We accept the Government nursery funding vouchers and as such provide a valuable service for families from all situations and backgrounds, and welcome children with special educational needs or disabilities. 

"We currently operate from a temporary building, with access to a lovely outdoor area, but this is beginning to deteriorate and costs considerable funds to maintain. We have been advised by the council planning department that we will need to replace this building in the not too distant future. It has been here for around fifteen years, and is starting to show its age.

"The old building also costs a fortune to heat in the winter, and in extreme weather we have been forced to send the children home.

"We are a non-profit making organisation but, with careful budgeting and fundraising, we have managed to scrape a small amount of money together towards this project, but this has taken ages and we need help to achieve this goal!" 

To facilitate their new build, Marie hopes that the playgroup can elicit the support of businesses, or anyone who can offer their support. She said: "We would love to put out an appeal to local businesses, tradespeople and individuals who might be prepared to support this venture by offering materials or services, or by offering to act as a benefactor to this project.

"Subject to planning, we would like to complete this new build during the school Summer holiday of 2016."

Any companies or individuals who think they can help the playgroup can contact them at: [email protected]">[email protected].