Over 230 extra ECEC places if the Central Coast Council approves new builds

The Central Coast Council of New South Wales is considering two development proposals which, if approved, would add 232 additional early childhood education and care (ECEC) places to the region. 

One of the centres, for 112 children, is being planned for a vacant lot adjoining the 23ha Mingara recreation complex and athletics centre on Wyong Rd, Tumbi Umbi, while the other, catering for 120 children, is being proposed as part of Warner Industrial Park.

The first centre, being proposed by Mingara Leisure Group, would cater for children from birth to five years of age, in two ground-level buildings connected by covered walkways, and would include a central piazza and separate outdoor play areas.

To operate the service, 27 staff would be needed from 6 am to 6 pm on weekdays (except public holidays). 

The second centre is envisaged to be built as part of stage 1A of the already approved five-stage industrial subdivision in Jilliby which is bounded by Kiar Ridge Rd, Hue Hue Rd, Sparks Rd and the M1.

In the single story building, the babies room would hold 24 children aged up to two years, 40 toddlers, and 56 preschool aged children, who would be educated and cared for by 26 staff during the operating hours of 6 am to 7 pm on weekdays.

Development applications for both proposed childcare centres – Mingara 1969/2023 and Jilliby 1789/2023 – can be viewed on Central Coast Council’s website, with public submissions open until 5pm on Friday, 10 November.

Local coverage of this story is available here.