There has been further news this evening regarding the potential closure of Crossbasket Nursery in High Blantyre and unfortunately the business has now confirmed it WILL close permanently on 1st October. The 3-5 years department will close earlier, from 14 August.
The sad news was communicated to all the parents and carers earlier today in writing, the closure being largely attributable to the health of the owner.
Having received several messages tonight, we understand this will be a continued concern for some families who have not managed to find alternative childcare or had hopes of the nursery continuing or being leased to others.
South Lanarkshire Council continue to offer assistance in trying to find alternative childcare for those families affected. Blantyre Telegraph has endeavoured to contact other local nurseries with some moderate success in being able to assist some of the families and staff last month.
Despite the obvious difficulties, the Crossbasket team have continued to provide high quality childcare and prioritise the health and well-being of the children during this ongoing, difficult ramp down.
The letter advised parents, “Despite some online speculation about the closure being linked to the wider Crossbasket Castle Estate planning, this is not the case at all.” The letter also added, “I have now notified the end date of our lease to the Castle Estate to allow them to reestablish a new use for the Nursery building. Finally, thank you to all our wonderful children. All their individual personalities and unique characters have made every day of work for the last 11 years a pleasure. I wish them all the absolute best in their future.“
Finally, we wish the owner the best with her health and for the next chapter, and of course hope all the hard working staff manage to quickly find alternative employment. Regarding the future use of the building, there has been no indication about what’s next. We’ll keep our readers advised when we officially know more.
