Just last year, parents faced year-long waiting lists for childcare in various areas of Ipswich, including Brookwater, an area also known as “Nappy Valley.”
Developer OPD submitted an application to the Ipswich City Council for a childcare facility on Magnolia Drive. The facility can cater to 105 children and will create 18 new jobs. It also includes a cot room for babies, which is in high demand.
The only operating childcare facility in the suburb is Goodstart Early Learning, which is always full, hence the nickname “Nappy Valley.”
Cr David Morrison also said that he has been getting many feedback about the lack of childcare facilities in the area as well as in Springfield and its surrounds, Redbank Plains and Collingwood Park.
The demand for a childcare facility is strong for babies under two years. Former Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said he receives at least three complaints and pleas from parents who need childcare each month. He said that the council is working closely with developers to encourage more companies to open childcare facilities in several areas.
