New light rail threatens to close kindy
SOUTHPORT’S Trinity Kindergarten has been taking care of children on the Gold Coast for 39 years.
But the centre could soon be forced to close its doors as parents i ncr e a s i ngl y a v o i d Southport because of the light rail works, underway in front of the childcare facility on Queen St.
Centre co-ordinator Jane Ward said some parents have remained loyal to the not-for-profit kindergarten but next year’s enrolments were dwindling.
Meanwhile many other kinderg a r t e ns a c r o s s t he c i t y have 12-month waiting lists.
‘‘We are very concerned future,’’ Ms Ward said.
‘‘I know many businesses have closed or suffered during the works and will continue to, but there are community centres hurting too.
‘‘It seems everyone just wants to avoid Southport at the moment, which is understandable but there
for the needs to be a campaign people back to the area.’’
Ms Ward said she was afraid that without adequate enrolments the centre would have to close.
‘‘We are a traditional kindergarten, open from 8am until 3pm, we cater for people who may not be working, but want their children to interact with their peers,’’ she said.
‘‘We are one of the only old fashioned kindies left and I would hate for us to close our doors.
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‘‘It would be great to see GoldLinQ actively promoting Southport and trying to get people back, but if not then locals need to continue to support local business and community centres.
‘‘I’m sure we will all benefit from the light rail once it is done but i t i s a tough slog right now.’’
A GoldLinQ spokeswoman said the company would liaise with all stakeholders, including Trinity Kindergarten, before work began.
‘‘GoldLinQ has not started working in this area. Government-funded early enabling works have been completed to prepare the corridor for GoldLinQ track laying,’’ she said.
‘‘In preparation for the track laying, our community team will liaise directly with all stakeholders along this section of the corridor and ensure the delivery of the light rail will be integrated with their needs.’’