As of last Friday the Grose Street premises began operating as Cherry Blossom Early Learning Centre, saved at the last minute by new operators.

CFK receivers Ferrier Hodgson had announced in early March the centre would close on April 2, leaving parents with the unenviable task of finding new arrangements for their kids.

One of those parents, Brian Ellicott, said trying to find alternative places for his two sons had already caused significant stress.

“Not just for me but for all the families . . . We would really have been struggling to find a place,” he said.

It was getting to the point where Mr Ellicott and his wife were seriously contemplating one of them giving up work.

The relief at learning the centre would stay open was twofold.

“The children are really comfortable with the staff here,” Mr Ellicott said. “It’s not just about work but the emotional turmoil the children would have to go through (to relocate).”

Cherry Blossom will be run by the property’s owner Bob McDowell and experienced child care worker Danielle Handspiker.

All positions at the centre — currently 39 each day — will be guaranteed for current enrolments.

Mr McDowell, who previously leased the site to CFK, said while he could have sold the property for housing, he was determined for it to remain a child care centre.

“There’s a real need for them in the area,” he said.

There’ll be no time wasted in giving the building a makeover. Ms Handspiker said refurbishment work will begin this weekend with the centre also set to benefit from new resources.

She said there are a number of spaces still to be filled at Cherry Blossom.

The changeover in operators benefited from a State Government arrangement that gives priority to licence applications arising from failed CFK and ABC child care centres.