An office building on an industrial estate is set to be turned into a day nursery offering places for up to 50 children.
Permission has been granted by Newcastle Borough Council to change the use of The Clockhouse, on Hempstalls Lane in Newcastle, from light industrial into a nursery with after-school and breakfast club facilities.
The building – also known as Whitby House – was previously split into office units for small businesses and has a secure rear yard which will be converted into an outdoor play area.
Plans submitted by Small Heath-based Tiny Day Nursery include five age-specific rooms – Cherry Room for 0 to 12 months with an adjacent sleep area, Blossom Room for 12 to 24 months, Flower Power Room for 24 to 36 months, Ranger Room for 36 to 48 months – and an after-school club for children aged eight to 13.
The nursery, which is on Brampton Sidings Industrial Estate, will operate Monday to Friday from 6am to 6pm, employing eight full-time staff and a full-time manager. The layout includes a sensory play room, office space, toilet facilities, a staff kitchen and a reception area.
Six on-site parking spaces will be available for staff and visitors, supported by on-street parking for drop-offs and pick-ups. The building would be adapted to provide step-free access, accessible WCs and cycle storage.
The design and access statement submitted with the planning application states: “The proposed change of use will deliver a valuable community childcare facility in a sustainable and accessible location.
“The internal layout has been carefully designed to provide safe, age-appropriate learning environments, while access, parking, and outdoor play arrangements ensure the development integrates successfully with its surroundings.”
