Nursery operator to spread its wings

A LANCASHIRE childcare business is looking to grow after agreeing a new funding deal.

Preston company Pendle View Holdings operates two childrens nurseries at sites near Blackburn and Fulwood employing 43 people.

It has refinanced with Barclays Business, the SME arm of the bank, to fund growth.

Owner Mike Melville said: “Childcare has changed dramatically in recent years in order to meet the needs of busy working families. We are continuously looking at what we do to make sure we provide the best outcomes for the children in our care.”

“After several successful years trading we are now in a period of growth.We’ve been able to refinance the business, introduce new capital and now we’re looking to expand our provision with the continued support of Barclays, who are an integral part of our future growth plans.”

Pendle View owns the Pendle View Nursery at Copster Green, Blackburn and First Steps Nursery in Fulwood.

James Knowles, a manager at Barclays Business added: “It is essential we support businesses like Pendle View which are vital for a propsperous local economy. Local working families need access to quality childcare that not only offers a great environment for their children but is also flexible enough to meet their own needs.

“Both nurseries have excellent Ofsted and Local Authority ratings and First Steps Nursery is expanding the number of places for local children. The business is now well positioned for further growth as they capitalise on increased demand for quality childcare places.”