Proposed plans for Little Zak’s Academy childcare centre at Radcliffe Wyee

The Hunter childcare development boom is continuing with plans recently lodged for a new $3 million centre in Lake Macquarie. Read the details.

Artist impression – proposed 125 place childcare centre at Wyee in Lake Macquarie. Credit: North Perspective

The saturation of childcare developments continues across the Hunter with yet another centre now proposed for a new residential estate in Lake Macquarie.

Located within Radcliffe Wyee, south of Wyee, plans have been lodged by Saltro Developments for a 125 place centre based childcare facility on Soreina Dr.

The single-storey plans, costing just over $3 million, is set to be a ‘Little Zak’s Academy’ which is already quite popular in the region with centres across Newcastle, Maitland and Cessnock.

The plans include 33 carparking spaces – 12 allocated for staff – associated landscaping and signage.

Artist impression – proposed 125 place childcare centre at Wyee in Lake Macquarie. Credit: North Perspective

Development application for a 125 place childcare centre at Wyee in Lake Macquarie. Aerial shot

The proposed centre will be open for a 12-hour day from 7am-7pm Monday to Friday and employ a minimum of 23 staff members.

Planning documents said the proposal will offer additional childcare services for the local community, with new residential areas such as Radcliffe Wyee typically attracting younger families where demand for these services is higher.

“The proposed development promotes community cohesion and a sense of belonging, providing opportunities for children and families to socialise and develop relationships with others in the community,” a planner said.

Artist impression – proposed 125 place childcare centre at Wyee in Lake Macquarie. Credit: North Perspective

“Increased accessibility to local childcare can also increase employment opportunities for parents, who may not otherwise be able to work.”

Planners believe the proposed development will unlikely result in any significant or adverse impacts, that cannot otherwise be mitigated.

“The proposed development is considered to be representative of the desired outcomes for the Wyee area and is suitable for the site,” a planner added.