Parents and staff fighting to save Strode College Day Nursery in Street have stepped up their campaign after UCS College Group finally responded to the growing backlash over its planned closure.

The row erupted after families were told the nursery is set to shut, sparking anger across Street and a petition calling for the decision to be reversed. Staff said they were "completely devastated" and "utterly heartbroken" after putting their "heart and soul" into building a welcoming setting with an enriched curriculum for local children.

Parents have described the setting as a huge loss for the village, with some saying they were heartbroken at the thought of losing a place where their children were settled, happy and thriving. Campaigners say the nursery is close to filling its September 2026 places and has built a strong reputation over more than 20 years.

They also argue the site plays an important role beyond day-to-day childcare.

Campaigners say the nursery supports children with additional needs, with trained staff including qualified SENCos and team members with autism training. They also say it gives college and assisted learning students access to placements and work experience, while providing vital childcare for parents who need to work or study.

The campaign has now won backing from Glastonbury and Somerton MP Sarah Dyke.

She said: "I was very concerned to hear that University Centre Somerset College Group have decided to close Strode College Day Nursery in Street. With only three other childcare settings available in Street and demand continuing to rise, the nursery's closure will create further barriers to childcare for local families.

"This will increase the burden on local parents immeasurably – especially those who work or study – while putting their children's early learning at risk."

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She said she has written to request a meeting with UCS College Group to seek further clarity on the decision.

A spokesperson for UCS College Group said: "We understand the concerns surrounding the decision to close Strode College Day Nursery.

"Rising operational costs, including staff wages, utilities, and essential resources, have far outpaced the funding we receive for government-funded childcare hours. Despite our best efforts to adapt, the gap between income and expenditure has become unsustainable, and the nursery is operating at a loss.

"This decision has been made only after exploring all possible options to remain open."

The college group said 15 children currently enrolled will need alternative nursery placements and said it was committed to supporting families through the transition.

It also moved to reassure parents over care in the final weeks and over support for children with additional needs.

The spokesperson said: "All nursery settings have a duty to be inclusive and offer Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision. We want to reassure parents and carers that we will continue to offer the highest standard of care until the final day of operation on Friday, 10 July."

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