First Steps Early Learning Centre proposal to permanently establish itself in Goonellabah

A popular Northern Rivers childcare centre destroyed in the 2022 flood disaster that is currently operating under temporary service approvals is planning to permanently re-establish themselves in Goonellabah.

A popular Northern Rivers childcare centre destroyed in the 2022 flood disaster is planning to permanently re-establish itself in Goonellabah.

A development application has been lodged with Lismore City Council for the demolition of two dwellings, ancillary structures and removal of vegetation at 62 and 64 Rous Rd, Goonellabah.

Due to the design challenges and significant costs to rebuild on their previous Anzac Cl site, First Steps Early Learning wanted to relocate to an area without flood risk, documents revealed.

Lismore's First Steps Early Learning Centre was smashed in the March 31 floods, forcing the closure of the centre until May.

“The ongoing operation of this childcare facility is critical in the fact that it offers a placement of 80 children (proposed to be extended to 98 placements) with 25 staff within the childcare sector in Lismore,” developers said.

Developers said the operation of the centre will take pressure off childcare demands which were exacerbated by last year’s floods.

Aerial view of the new proposed site of First Steps Early Learning childcare facility on the corner of Rous Rd and Reserve St Goonellabah.

The purpose-built Centre-Based Child Care Facility will accommodate placement of 98 children, and 16 staff (on-site at any one time).

The $1,723,523 facility is proposed to operate between Monday to Friday from 6.30am to 6.30pm.

The development will be of a high-quality contemporary design that incorporates good levels of articulation, visual interest and uses a range of building materials and colours, particularly when viewed from the street.

South and east views of the proposed new site of the First Steps Early Learning childcare facility.

The design of the proposed building will be a modern cottage style in keeping with the locality and current design trends, an architectural design statement read.

“The building uses a combination of modern Linea weatherboards with timber detailing, colorbond roof, some stone clad features around the entry.

“Landscaping will soften and compliment the design. There is a good amount of articulation in the design, also complimented by the roof incorporating gables and trims.

Colours will be predominantly whites and light greys, with some timber and stone features,” the statement read.

North and west views of the new site proposed for First Steps Early Learning childcare facility.

The new First Steps Early Learning centre will have five indoor childcare rooms accommodating children aged zero to five.

The design includes sleep rooms, bathroom and toilet amenities, store rooms, prep areas, a mstaffroom and staff courtyard, laundry, and an office and meeting room.

Nine 90 degree on-street car spots will be available on Reserve St under a shared use arrangement.