A NEW purpose-built day nursery is already buzzing with the noise of excited children.

Opened in St Peter’s Church, in Pinkerton Road, South Ham, the nursery already has 27 children on its books, the vast majority of whom come from within walking distance of the facility.

The decision to create the new day nursery was taken by the Basingstoke Parochial Church Council (PCC) in response to Hampshire County Council’s identification of a need for a childcare facility for the community in South Ham, helping to support parents as they return to work after having a child.

Groundwork on the site began in June and the finishing touches, including the planting of 58 climbing shrubs that will screen the compound, were completed in time for the opening.

Part-funding for the new day nursery was granted by the county council, as part of its department for education’s programme for the delivery of early years education.

The Parratt Trust has also granted funds while short term financial support is also being provided by the Diocese of Winchester, through the Investing for Mission Fund, by Basingstoke’s Boustead Trust, and through the PCC’s own resources.

In total, the project has cost less than £400,000.

Rector of Basingstoke, Canon Jo Stoker said: “The new St Peter’s Day Nursery has been a big project for St Peter’s and we’re really delighted to celebrate its opening.

“We believe it will make a real contribution to supporting young families on South Ham. It will also help us to enhance further the mission and outreach of St Peter’s Church and its congregation.”

The site, which is operated by Timbers and Lychpit, with capacity for full daycare in up to 40 places, was officially opened by mayor of Basingstoke and Deane, Councillor Sean Keating on Tuesday.