PLANS for a new day nursery in Penrith, which could bring 20 jobs, are set to be recommended for approval next week. 

The application put forward Atkinson Building Contractors is earmarked for land at Eden Business Park, on land off Thacka Lane. 

Westmorland and Furness Council will meet to discuss the plans on March 13. 

The council's Economic Development and Regeneration Team backs the unconventional venture, stating that the proposed development is a "much needed facility in Penrith due to the expansion of free working hours by the Government."

Penrith Town Council has also voiced support for the application. 

The application supports the creation of a childcare facility catering to up to 80 children, supplementing the existing, fully-subscribed nurseries in the area.

The nursery opening hours will generally be from 8am until 6pm, with 26 car parking bays according to the proposals.

The intended provider of the site is Lambkins, which was originally established in the village of Langwathby in 2012. 

They look to champion a free-range, organic approach to child learning, facilitated mainly through interactive play. 

The new Penrith location, bordering Thacka Nature Reserve – for which Lambkins will have direct access – is said to cater perfectly to their ethos. 

The planning report states: "Whilst the nursery / preschool would employ a small number of people, it is not primarily an employment use, and as such is contrary to the Local Plan employment land allocation.

"That notwithstanding, the benefit of providing an additional important local service to the community which is in line with the Government recent expansion of free childcare funding is deemed to outweigh the harm and an exception to policy is considered acceptable in this circumstance."