The authority intends to close a centre in Hayes. As well as this, a centre in Northwood is also under threat. The public has the chance to influence the decision-making process, but this window of opportunity is due to close before the end of January. Leaflet printers within Hayes could be used to promote access to other centres in the future.
Hillingdon Council has set out its position via a statement:
“The proposals are currently under consultation; we have 18 children's centres and unfortunately, two have made no progress in signing their lease.”
Despite the clarity of the statement, not everyone at Hillside Primary School (HPS) is convinced that it is the leases which are causing the difficulties. HPS, which is located on Northwood Way, could be closed by April this year. It has been suggested by three senior staff members that the council is being pushed into action by a need to cut expenditure.
A children centre delivers a wide variety of services on a single site. Adult learning, parenting and family support are all provided in one spot. Health services and play groups are also on offer. Currently, a variety of organisations take charge of the 18 centres in the area. However, it is thought that those centres which remain open could be brought under the management of the council.