Two nurseries for 230 given the go- ahead

the age of two and are part of the Scottish Government’s drive to increase nursery openings.

Extra places for kids are due to be available from August giving builders only a few months to get the nurseries constructed.

Up to 130 pupils will attend the new early years centre at Forehill Primary.

Earmarked for a grass site within the school ground, it will boast a playground and 25 dedicated parking spaces.

But Forehill residents have voiced concern about the expansion sparking traffic chaos despite a new entry for vehicles being created on Caledonia Road.

Tory ward councillor Mary

Kilpatrick welcomed the new nursery but pointed out there have been complaints about parking in the area.

Resident Sarah Keary objected to the plan.

She said: “We have real concerns over the provision of parking and drop off for the new early years centre.

“As residents of Armour Drive, we face daily issues already with parents parking across driveways and generally making the street hard to navigate as it is very narrow.”

The Regulatory Panel planning meeting heard a travel plan will help ease problems.

Troon SNP councillor Craig Mackay said he was pleased to see a large outdoor space included in the Forehill plan.

An outdoor games area for the community, new path and bus drop off zone are part of the plans for the early years education centre at Struthers.

It will cater for up to 100 children - which is a large rise in the number of places available currently, which stands at 30.

More parking will also be available.

Councillor Craig Mackay said: “I welcome the proposals, which will in my view provide a top class early years facility for local residents.

“In addition to the educational benefits, the scheme will finally create a much- needed connection between the new housing and the existing community, and should significantly relieve the current traffic chaos at the Staffin Road, Troon, side of the school.

“I do still have concerns about the Tay Road side, though, as the increase in nursery capacity will almost certainly result in more drop- offs at that side of the school in future.

“I am pleased that Ayrshire Roads Alliance’s new Head of Service Kevin Braidwood agreed that this will be monitored and am hopeful that further proposals can taken forward if it continues to be an issue.”

Councillors approved the plans last week.