Parents in East Finchley are in a state of outrage at the prospect that their childcare centre could be closed.

Mother-of-two, Cheryl Connell, is leading a group of parents who use the Newstead Centre, Fallows Close, in the fight against funding cuts.

The parents believe that the centre, which is rated outstanding by Ofsted, is in danger because they think the council plans to cut its funding by 35 per cent in September.

Parent Tricia Young, said: “Why when you have got such a centre of excellence would you even countenance closing it?

“As a parent I would be devastated.

“If this centre closed I would have to seriously consider my work position. I am quite outraged.”

The centre provides daily childcare which is used by working parents and the parents are organising a petition against the funding cuts.

Ms Young said that the council’s plan is nonsensical because reducing childcare will mean fewer women are able to work, meaning they pay less tax.

She said: “The loss of childcare is impacting upon women’s ability to work so it does not make sense economically.

“It will force people out of the work place. It is just stupid.”

In response to these concerns Robert McCulloch-Graham, Director of Children’s Services, said: “These proposals, which will be consulted on in May, are intended to make sure funding goes to the children and families who will benefit most.

“While the £4.3million funding pot remains the same, the way this money is allocated to Barnet’s children’s centres would change under the proposals.

“Last year we restructured our children’s centres and although last year’s budget was reduced we supported 7,800 families compared to 5,821 during the same period in the previous year.”

To sign the petition to save Newstead visit http://www.savenewstead.com/