A new childcare centre could take over a North Geelong Thai restaurant, according to a planning permit application lodged with council.
The proposed facility for 199 Thompson Rd will offer care for up to 30 kids with six “professional” educators on site, the application reveals.
Located within a Bell Park residential area, the site has previously operated as Le Thai Chef Restaurant for six years.
The centre would provide a “vital” community service, according to the planning documents.
“The proposed child care centre will provide for a much-needed service for the local community,” the document says.
“At least a number of the residents of the local area will generate the need of the proposed use.”
The application states the proposal demonstrates a “high level of compliance” with council’s planning scheme “in terms of off-site amenity impacts and on-site car parking”.
There are “many very good reasons” that support childcare centres to be located in residential areas, according to the application.
“The benefits of locating childcare centres in residential areas is well-recognized in the purpose of the residential growth zone, and many of the council local policies and strategies,” it says.
“The proposed child care centre facility will operate of a very low key use and will not in any negative way impact on any adjoining and or surrounding properties.”
The centre would provide care for children from 24 months to 36 months, and up to pre-school age.
Six “highly qualified” educators would care for the kids, with the “health, safety and the wellbeing of the children being paramount”, the plans say.
