THE NURSERY where a three-year-old girl died after becoming entangled in play equipment is likely to close for good it was announced today (Friday, October 19).

Lydia Bishop died during her first day at York College nursery, on September 17, after suffering injuries on outdoor play equipment.

The nursery has been closed ever since as police and Health and Safety Executives conduct their investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death.

At the beginning of the month two members of staff from the nursery were arrested and released on bail as part of what police described as ongoing inquiries.

The nursery was expected to remain closed until November 5, to allow time for the investigations to take place, but now the York College has said it is looking at closing the nursery.

In a statement, the college said: “This proposal has been made in light of the complexity of the ongoing police investigation, and in consultation with the local authority, the college’s board of corporation and Ofsted.”

Parents were sent a letter earlier today by the Principal of York College, Dr Alison Birkinshaw, to let them know about the proposed closure and help families with the transition to another nursery.

In the letter, York College principal Dr Alison Birkinshaw said: “I appreciate that many of you will be very disappointed by our proposal to close the nursery, and I am deeply grateful for your patience, support and loyalty over the past few weeks.

“This is a proposal we have made with reluctance and in full knowledge of the support parents have shown for the nursery.

“I know that at the very least, you will now have to manage further disruption and inconvenience. However, I would like to reiterate that we have not drawn this conclusion lightly.”

The City of York Council said its Family Information Service will continue to help families find alternative childcare and can be contacted on 01904-554444.