Sam Farraway MLC and Parkes Mayor Ken Keith OAM turned the first sod at the old community health centre in Coleman Road on Monday.
Seven years of work came to fruition on Monday when the first sod was turned to redevelop the old community health building into a purpose-build facility for Central West Family Day Care.
“This is just fantastic,” said Ann-Marie Winter, service coordinator of Central West Family Day Care. “We are going to have so much more space and will be able to provide additional services to our community by adding a pre-school, as well as before and after school care and vacation care.”
The $3 million project, expected to be completed by June next year, has been funded to the value of $1.3 million under the NSW Government’s Restart NSW program with Parkes Shire Council contributing $668,000.
“This project is really important as Parkes and the Central West have a bright future ahead,” said Nationals Upper House MP, Sam Farraway. “It will make Parkes a better place to live.”
Parkes Shire Mayor Ken Keith said: “The demand for childcare services has already seen Central West Childcare Services outgrow its current facility with 47 educators and over 400 children enrolled.
“With major developments happening in Parkes, the delivery of a quality childcare facility will ensure Parkes can meet the needs of new families and businesses relocating to the region.”
By Maggi Barnard