A NURSERY which has been rated as ‘outstanding’ in its last inspection is hoping for a grant to extend its building to cater for the growing demand of places at its school.

St Richards Atherton Pre-School, which is based at Dorset Road Community Centre has submitted a planning application to Wigan Council to increase the size of its nursery room so it can add another 16 places with work expected to cost around £57,500.

The pre-school, which currently has 57 children between the age of two and four on its roster, has forecasted it may be oversubscribed next year as a result of a new government initiative introduced in September to provide 30 hours of free childcare to those who are eligible for the scheme.

Chair of St Richards Atherton Pre-School Norman Bradbury said: “Earlier this year we were forced to turn away children at the school and we might have to do the same in 2018 unfortunately.

“There are also plans to build hundreds of new homes in the area which will mean the demand for places will also increase too.

“In order to improve the lifestyle of the residents, it is essential the children are given a great pre-school experience.”

Bolton West MP Chris Green has also written a letter of support to help to secure funding for the extension.

In his letter, he states: “The additional places will give local children the opportunity of receiving the pre-school education they deserve and allow the parents to find employment and giving residents the chance to improve their current situation.”