Spreyton childcare hub to tackle Devonport's shortage
Errol Stewart plans to convert a 35-acre farm into a 110-place childcare facility opening in 2028.
Hotel developer Errol Stewart is building his first childcare centre on his family's 35-acre farm at Spreyton, responding to the Devonport region's shortage of childcare places. The $4 million conversion will house up to 110 children and employ about 25 staff.
The two-storey facility will include activity and sleeping spaces, bathrooms, a kitchen, a large play area with shade, and a children's garden. A well-established childcare provider has indicated it will run the centre once developed.
The development application is open for public comment until 21 October. If approved this year, construction could begin right away and finish within about one year.
The centre could open in 2028. Stewart said he chose a rural setting to give children open green space rather than a city location surrounded by commercial buildings.
- 35 acres
- Farm size
- $4 million
- Project cost
- 110
- Childcare places
- 25
- Staff positions
Why it mattersDevonport's childcare shortage keeps parents out of the workforce; a new centre with 110 places would directly ease wait lists and workforce gaps.
AustraliaTasmania's Devonport region faces a significant childcare shortage that keeps parents from working; this facility would add 110 places to a severely underdone market.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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