The majority of families hit by the planned closure of a Footscray childcare centre have missed out on places at a nearby centre.
Only six of the 35 families impacted by the closure of Empire Street Early Learning Centre has been offered a place at the Bulldogs Community Children’s Centre next year, with the rest expected to transfer to Maribyrnong River Children’s Centre, or find another.
Parents were notified of their offers the day after a meeting with Maribyrnong councillors to discuss the closure.
Meanwhile, centre operator Early Childhood Management Services flatly denied claims by Maribyrnong councillor Catherine Cumming that a manager had told her children had been exposed to drug dealing and domestic disputes among neighbours.
Spokeswoman Kate Jeremiah said the ECMS centre director and area manager met with Cr Cumming at the centre and were asked about neighbouring activity.
“ECMS’ area manager mentioned that, from time to time, they can hear music and loud voices, but she never confirmed witnessing any drug deals or domestic disputes. ECMS categorically denies these claims.”
But Cr Cumming has stood by the claims as well as her decision to vote with other councillors to close the centre in December.
Star Weekly understands the Department of Education is not investigating the centre or the claims.
A spokeswoman said the department has recently been notified about council’s intended closure of the centre.
“Local councils make their own decisions regarding the services they provide to their communities.
“The Department’s continued focus is on the children and families involved, and we will work with local council and the centre management to ensure families successfully transition to their new services with minimal disruption to children.”
Parent Sophia Agneskis said the council has failed to convince parents of the need to close the centre at such short notice, without a proper plan for the future of the site.
Cr Sarah Carter said parents unhappy with a move to the Maribyrnong centre would be “case managed” to see if closer centre’s such as Church Street Childrens Centre in West Footscray could accommodate them.
Cr Carter said she would consider seeking a delay in the closure if “a significant majority” of parents remained dissatisfied.
