When a new building is opened without any mention of one of the nurseries on its sign, it’s hard to believe that the decision to close it hasn’t already been taken.

And, for all the claims of consultation and promises that parents’ views would be taken on board, that’s exactly how it turned out at Merrylee Nursery class. Ninety-six per cent of responses city-wide were against the proposals and councillors were elected to represent these views but have let us down.

We’ve all been left upset and angry at the merger with Lime Tree Day Nursery. The only saving was the salary of the only dedicated nursery teacher - Pounds 32,445. How can removing the teacher be an educational benefit?

Education is a fundamental human right and we were shocked at how ill-informed many councillors were. Surely they should do their homework and listen to the people they are elected to represent, rather than blindly following the party line? Most of our emails to Labour councillors went unanswered.

The council’s decision to merge Merrylee Nursery class and Holmlea Day Nursery has severed ties with local primary schools, and because there are fewer places in the new nursery - Lime Tree Day Nursery - local children will be scattered across the city.

Our children have benefited from a small, caring, dedicated staff who have nurtured them and prepared them for school. Sadly, the council has robbed their siblings and other children of such a wonderful start.

Jill Ledgerwood (mother of Rory, 4, a pupil at Merrylee Nursery class, and Rowan, 2).