THE expansion of a Hadleigh pre-school is a 'significant step forward' after an authority approved more than £170,000 in funding.

Babergh Council cabinet members have unanimously backed plans to invest £174,144 of its Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) pot into the expansion of Hadleigh Parkside Pre-School, in Pykenham Way.

CIL money is made up of developer contributions paid to councils for investment in local services.

The project, costing just under £190,000 in total, will deliver a purpose-built baby room to provide space for 20 new places for babies.

Suffolk County Council, which put together the bid, contributed the remaining £14,000 needed to deliver the project.

Chloe Bambridge, a manager on behalf of the school, said the decision was a 'significant step forward' for the community in Hadleigh.

She said: "This investment will not only create childcare spaces for children younger than one year, but it will also create jobs and enhance our ability to serve the public.

"This project will provide more children with access to high-quality early education, setting them on a path for lifelong success."

Parkside provides full-day care as well as funded sessions, with the council saying the new facility will make the area more attractive to working families, as well as ensuring every child is able to access early education.

Cllr Jane Carruthers, the ward member, wrote in favour of the application as a way to meet demand created by new housing developments.

She said: "I know how caring and professional the staff are and how passionate they are about providing the best experience possible for the children, including access to outdoor play."

Cllr Kathryn Grandon, also a ward councillor, added: "Having visited Hadleigh Parkside Pre School a number of times, I have always been impressed with the team's professionalism and enthusiasm."

The papers say the pre-school, rated 'good' by Ofsted, has a 'significant waiting list', with county council data suggesting a need for at least 49 baby places across the town.

The work is expected to take between eight and 12 weeks to be built and delivered ahead of the September intake next year.

If maintained correctly, the building is expected to last for more than 50 years.

Ms Bambridge added: "We are grateful for the support, especially from Suffolk County Council and Babergh District Council, and we look forward to the positive impact this project will have, enhancing our services for young families.

"We are currently taking enquiries for our new baby room, so if you are looking for a space, then please get in touch."