GLASGOW planners have approved development of a pre-five centre in one of the city’s parks.

The council facility, for up to 87 two to five-year-olds, will be built beside the winter gardens in Tollcross Park.

The disused Millennium visitor centre will be demolished to make way for the nursery. Restoration of the storm-damaged winter gardens is going ahead under a separate project.

A statement submitted with the planning application explained: “By positioning the new early years facility on the footprint of the Millennium Building, and orientating the playrooms to the east, the impact on the park is minimised.

“The main outdoor play space is positioned to the east of the building, reducing the visual impact on the existing park. Surrounded by mature trees, this site offers an exciting opportunity to explore the outdoors. A small play area/dining area will face onto the park — this will be used by smaller groups.”

It continued: “An early learning and childcare facility is required in the area and there is a lack of suitable sites. The proposed development will be a valuable asset to the community as it would benefit families by enabling parents and carers to work, train and study.”

Three accessible car parking spaces will be provided near the main entrance, but no other parking will be available on site. Staff and parents will be encouraged to access the nursery by foot or bicycle. Ample secure cycle/buggy/scooter storage will be provided.

The centre is one of four of the same design being provided across the city as part of Glasgow City Council’s efforts to meet the Scottish Government commitment to increase the provision of free early learning and childcare from 600 hours a year to 1,140 hours for all three to five-year-olds, as well as eligible two-year-olds.

Accommodation will include four playrooms, a dining room, reception/office space, parents’ room, staff room, kitchen and laundry room, and toilets/changing facilities.

The early learning and childcare facility will be operational 52 weeks a year, open Monday to Friday between 8am to 6pm. There will be no set sessions, allowing families to use their allocated hours more flexibly. Pupil drop-off/collection will take place throughout the day.

The other new centres will be at Govanhill, Broomhill and Carntyne.