BIRCHINGTON primary school has been proposed as one of the next group of children’s centres to be built.

In 2003, the Government decided that every local authority should identify locations for centres particularly within the 20 per cent most deprived wards.

Kent already has 50 Children’s Centres either built, in the process of being built or awaiting approval from the DfES and by 2008 will have a total of 72 in place.

Funded by the General Sure Start Grant, the centres serve children and their families from the antenatal period, through until children start in reception or Year 1 at primary school. Each offers a wide range of services to families with babies and pre-school children.

KCC, along with partner agencies, has proposed the following locations for the next eight Children’s Centres:

Children’s Centres relate directly to one of the Towards 2010 targets set out by the County Council.

John Simmonds, KCC cabinet member for education, said: "Children’s centres bring together services for health, employment and education all under one roof. This makes it easier for families to get the support they need and give the best possible start in life to their children."