AN APPLICATION to extend hours at a Bexley childcare centre were approved with a one-year trial period.
St Marys Day Care Centre at Queen Victoria Street has been running since 2005, but neighbours have raised complaints about noise and parking.
Seven letters and a petition with 74 signatures opposed the new application, while a petition supporting the application had 72 signatures.
The council approved a trial period for extended hours at its meeting last week.
The new hours of operation are 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, with cleaning permitted until 7pm. Five parent and staff meetings or workshops a year are permitted until 8pm.
The centre sought approval for unrestricted outdoor play time, opening hours until 7pm and permission to hold 10 meetings or workshops a year until 8pm.
The application was deferred by the council last December 7 to allow an on-site meeting with objectors and the centre.
Bexley resident Eileen Emmerson, who had raised concerns about noise and parking said: "Everyone's rights have to be considered".
Centre spokeswoman Monica Samuel said many parents lived in the area and did not drive to the centre. "[The operators] will comply and strictly obey conditions of consent," Ms Samuel said.
