Councillors unanimously voted for the motion during Monday night’s council meeting. 

“In May 2018, the Ashmont Preschool Incorporated advised Council of their intention to cease trading at the end of June due to financial difficulties,” a report to councillors stated. 

“Preschool services at the facility ceased on June 15 and the premises are now vacant. Council has received enquiries from a number of early childhood educators and non-government community organisations.”

Licenced charity or not-for-profit early childhood educators will be asked to submit an expression of interest with the council to consider proposed child enrollment ages, service types and hours of operation.

A council report stated that the Ashmont site featured a purpose-built, two-room preschool constructed circa 1975 with capacity for around 45 to 50 children.

“The expression of interest will be conducted during August 2018,” the report stated. 

“A further report will be submitted to Council in September 2018 with a view to commencing a new lease agreement around November 1, following public notice of the proposed lease.”