OPPOSITION is growing to proposals that would close three nurseries as part of council cuts.

Back in February Mayor of Lewisham Sir Steve Bullock delayed a decision over the early years centres at Rushey Green, Ladywell and Honor Oak, saying he did not have enough information to reach a conclusion.

The August closures would save Lewisham Council around £2.2m a year but parents say there are not enough decent alternatives for the 150 places that would go.

Meanwhile the Unison union says 78 employees would lose their jobs.

Parent Laura Edwards, 36, said a recent meeting at Rushey Green had confirmed blanket disapproval of any closure.

She said: "Rushey Green is still at capacity and has still got a waiting list.

"The nursery is a lifeline to lots of Lewisham parents and provides specialist support for children with disabilities and special educational needs. We'd be devastated to see it close."

She said results of an unannounced Ofsted inspection at Rushey Green were made available to parents last week, meaning it kept its outstanding rating.

A spokeswoman for Lewisham Council said: “It is important that there is a sufficient number of childcare places in a variety of settings across Lewisham that meet the needs of children and parents.

“There are already over 100 early years settings within the private and voluntary sector that offer high-quality, diverse services and good value.

“While the council will continue to be responsible for ensuring there are enough childcare places to meet demand, it took the decision last year to withdraw from being a direct childcare provider, in line with many other local authorities.

“We are now consulting with parents and staff about the future of the three remaining early years centres in Lewisham.”

A Save Lewisham Nurseries campaign group has also been set up by parents and their online petition has been signed by 263 people so far.

To sign up, visit ipetitions.com/petition/save-lewisham-nurseries