COVENTRY University’s nursery will close for the final time tomorrow (October 31) despite vocal campaigning from parents who have claimed they had been ‘disregarded’ by the decision.
The decision was taken by the university in July after it deemed the nursery had been ‘financially unviable for some time’.
The university added increasing costs had left them fearing losses would continue and worsen.
In addition, the university said the temporary building used for the nursery was approaching the end of its working life and replacing it would add to the current losses.
The university first announced its plans to close the nursery in a letter to staff in May and a consultation process was conducted.
A petition set up by parents calling for the university to save the nursery gained more than 2,000 signatures.
Support for the campaigners has included Coventry South MP Zarah Sultana, city councillors and the city’s official Lady Godiva Pru Porretta.
Joel Busher, who set up the petition said the consultation process was run with ‘complete disregard for those affected.’
The university had originally intended to inform staff and parents whether the nursery would close by June 23, but a spokesperson said the decision was delayed so they could try to find a way to make the service financially sustainable.
The spokesperson added the university would be supporting those employed at the nursery and exploring options for redeployment within the Group.
