Weymouth nursery expands into former soft play site

The growth of Little Beans means they'll have more places for children

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 21st Oct 2024
Last updated 21st Oct 2024

A Weymouth nursery, marking its 10th anniversary this year, is expanding to take over the space that was a soft play centre.

Little Beans, on the Granby Trading Estate, has secured the lease for the former Sharky's Fun Factory unit, to increase the spaces available for 3 month olds up to 10 years.

It'll mean they can accommodate up to 100 children per session - upping their current capacity of 28 children.

For the first time, the Weymouth nursery will offer a baby unit, with a dedicated play space, sleeping area and its own garden.

The first phase of the expansion is set to be completed by January.

Tamsin Ledger, Director at Little Beans, said:

“We are delighted to expand our services to include baby care, allowing families the convenience of having siblings cared for in one nurturing environment.

“By also extending our provision to care for children up to 10 years old, we’re now able to offer an even more comprehensive wraparound service for families, supporting them before and after school, as well as during school holidays.”

Little Beans Directors Sebrina Drew and Tamsin Ledger with Mickey Jones from DJ Property

Sebrina Drew, Director at Little Beans added:

"With the new government funding expansion, which includes support for all families and an increase of up to 30 hours for working families, we are so delighted to be widening our offering of inclusive provision. Families can now access their childcare entitlement from 9 months old, offering them even greater flexibility and choice in childcare. Parents can apply their entitlement to any of the sessions we offer at Little Beans. We can’t wait to see this project come to life.”

The expansion also supports the creation of new jobs, with staff numbers increasing to almost double across both the Poole and Weymouth Little Beans locations.

The new roles will range from nursery apprenticeships to leadership positions, as well as opportunities in catering, media, and administration.

Tamsin Ledger said: "DJ Property has been instrumental in the viability of this development, providing practical assistance and expert advice. Their guidance and support has been invaluable in helping us bring this expansion to life.”

Mickey Jones, CEO at DJ Property, said: "We are proud to support Little Beans in their expansion here on the Granby Trading Estate. Their dedication to

nurturing children and building an inclusive, supportive community is truly inspiring."

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