PLANS to transform a former dog day care centre into a children’s nursery were approved by Bolton Council.

The site, in St Helens Road, Over Hulton, will accommodate 45 children, in the building that was formerly used as a scout hut.

In the building there will be a main hall, kitchen and toilet facilities, plus five smaller rooms used as an office, snack room/staff room, sleeping room and baby room for under two-year-olds.

There will be six full time and two part time staff, which will increase in correspondence with the capacity of children —currently at 14.

Provision for 12 parking spaces, including two drop off and pick up spaces will be provided and the outdoor space will be securely fenced to enable outdoor play.

Objections including increased traffic and noise had been raised in relation to the application.

Jennifer Francis, who will manage the building with her business partner Clare Kennedy, spoke at the meeting in favour of the application.

She said: “We don’t believe that children playing is a nuisance noise, there are two pubs and the M61 nearby, more likely to do this.

“Drop off and pick up will also be at varied times so would not contribute to traffic.

“This development will bring new jobs in the local community and a lot much needed childcare.”

Councillor Andrew Morgan said: “We looked at this site and I think it is a spot on location for what has been applied for.

“It’s a bit of a jump from dog to children’s centre and will take a lot of redevelopment but I think it is a great use of the building.”

The application was approved by the committee with conditions.

After the meeting Miss Francis said: “We are absolutely thrilled about this as we have been trying to find suitable premises in this locality for over two years.

“The Hut is being completely renovated over the next few months to provide a high quality childcare nursery.

“Both myself and my business partner are currently Ofsted registered childminders and are very excited to be expanding our business.

“ Lots of new job opportunities and childcare places will be available soon.”