A PRESCHOOL near Colchester has said it has made the “sad” and “difficult decision” to close later this year after saying it is “no longer viable” to remain open.

Little Avenues Preschool, in Broome Grove, Wivenhoe, said it is closing at the end of the summer term of 2024.

The site, which has been open in the town for more than a decade, shared the news on its social media page.

A statement reads: “It is with great sadness we are announcing the closure of Little Avenues Preschool at the end of the summer term 2024.

“This has been a difficult decision to make but sadly it is no longer viable for our small preschool to continue.”

The statement continued: “It has been a privilege to be part of the lives of so many families and the Wivenhoe community.

“We would like to thank all staff past and present who have worked incredibly hard to make Little Avenues a special place to work and play."

Just last year the site received a good rating in its most recent inspection.

At the time, Ofsted noted Little Avenues employs 13 staff and looks after 41 children.

It boasted an unblemished record since it registered as a childcare provider in 2012.