Hopes high for relocation of proposed preschool

The Umina Beach Public School community remains hopeful that the on-site preschool will be relocated from its proposed building site.

In April, then Education Minister Prue Car announced contracts had been awarded to deliver two preschools, one at Umina Beach and another at Tuggerawong Public School.

Plans for the Umina Beach site show the preschool on the K–2 playground and oval, with an additional carpark.

Parents have objected, questioning the loss of play space and the need for a car park.

A petition led by Jenny Bond gathered 534 verified signatures, urging the Department of Education to reject the placement.

“Safety is a prime concern,” the petition said.

“With the introduction of a car park, the risk of accidents involving our little ones could escalate.”

Bond said parents do not want the school to be a risk zone for children.

Concerns grew after two crashes occurred in August within the school zone at the corner of Hobart Ave and Melbourne Ave.

P&C Vice President Nellie Feeney said the new preschool should be a celebration for the school community.

“Sadly, it has been overshadowed by serious safety concerns,” she said.

“Our kids know what’s happening, and they are deeply worried about their green spaces.

“The parents, carers, teachers and students are the experts about our school.

“We will continue to advocate strongly for the students and community.”

A meeting was held on August 15 between school representatives and School Infrastructure NSW.

Ahead of the meeting, Central Coast Councillor Belinda Neal said Council had not required a carpark.

However, School Infrastructure referred to a previous meeting held with Council in mid-July.

Council Director of Environment and Planning Luke Nicholls confirmed meetings had occurred.

“With regard to carparking associated with the proposed childcare centre, Council would likely only become involved where the childcare centre proposed using on-street car parking rather than on the site itself,” he said.

“This would be via the Council’s Traffic Committee.”

A NSW Department of Education spokesperson said the proposed opening date for the preschool scheduled on Day 1, Term 1, 2027, remains unaltered.

““The Department has undertaken traffic assessment reports to gain further insights into traffic flow and safety at the proposed site,” the spokesperson said.

“The Department is continuing to investigate options for the new preschool on the site to ensure the best outcome for the school community.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said she has raised concerns directly with the Department.

“They have committed to taking this feedback into account and exploring options for resolution,” she said.

The Education Department confirmed that ongoing meetings between the school and infrastructure teams will be held throughout the life of the project.

The next meeting is expected to take place on Friday, August 29.

Ivona Rose