Childcare charity takes over abandoned Dundee nursery

A dilapidated Dundee nursery is to be transformed following a £1 community asset transfer.

Fintry Nursery has been empty for more than a decade, since a new school was built in the area.

Flexible Childcare Services Scotland (FCSS) has taken over the building from Dundee City Council and the charity wants to provide wraparound education and childcare services at the building, as well as moving its headquarters there, bringing jobs to the city.

Susan McGhee, chief executive of FCSS, said the buildings and grounds will be “completely refurbished”.

She added: “The old nursery was a valuable asset for the local community and it has lain empty for far too long.

“We will ensure that the facilities are of the highest possible standard, so that we can deliver the highest quality flexible childcare service for children and families in the area.

“Our flexible childcare model, and the transformational centre that we will be creating, will have a hugely positive, and lasting impact on the local community. To say that we are excited is an understatement.”

FCSS has been working on plans to take over the building since late last year, after a need was identified when families were unable to accept jobs due to a lack of accessible, flexible and affordable local childcare.

The council’s depute policy and resources convener Willie Sawers said: “This is tremendous news and will breathe new life into this empty building.

“It is fitting that it will be transformed into a modern facility that is designed to meet the all-round needs of families in a joined-up way.”