Understand
Suffolk County Council proposes closing up to 12 children's centres
Overview
Suffolk County Council is considering proposals to close up to 12 children's centres, known as family hubs, and relocate their services to alternative locations or libraries in order to save £450,000 annually. Under the plans, 17 out of the 32 existing family hubs would remain as Best Start Family Hubs following a government scheme funded with £6.5m. The proposals will be subject to a council vote regarding a public consultation, with a final decision not expected until early 2027.
Key points
- Suffolk County Council is proposing to close or repurpose up to 12 family hubs out of 32 across the county.
- Seventeen hubs are planned to remain and become Best Start Family Hubs following a £6.5m government funding allocation.
- Services from eight closing hubs would be moved to nearby facilities or local libraries.
- The council estimates the closures will save £450,000 annually.
- Opposition politicians and local parents have raised concerns that closures could disadvantage families without transport or make it harder to access services.
- The proposals will be discussed by councillors, and any consultation would require a six-week period before a final decision in early 2027.