Julian Lloyd Webber opens Kintore Way Children’s Centre

95-year-old Barbara Furneaux, headteacher at Kintore Way Nursery School from 1943 until 1975, also attended the opening, along with Simon Hughes MP and Mayor of Southwark Cllr Bob Skelly.

The centre, which stands opposite the Artesian Building on Grange Road, underwent major refurbishment in 2006 and has now re-opened as a Sure Start children's centre with new facilities including a sensory studio, creche and kitchen to provide in-house meals. There is also a nursery school with 150 places as well as breakfast, after school and holiday care.

One of the most striking changes in the appearance of the centre is in the garden which is now full of trees and has been landscaped with flowerbeds, play equipment and soft surfacing.

"Kintore Way has been a focal point for Bermondsey families since 1939," says headteacher Sharon Donno.

"Staff have worked incredibly hard to make the new children's centre a wonderful environment for children and their families. Kintore Way is a magical place where children can learn, explore and reach for the stars."

Cllr Caroline Pidgeon, executive member for children's services and education, added: "The new look Kintore Way children's centre is bright, spacious and a fabulous facility for Southwark's youngsters.

"We are committed to giving children the best possible start in life. Parents are now finding it easier to get the support they need for their children, whether it be childcare, health or specialised support, without having to visit many different locations across the borough.

"We have successfully opened 12 children's centres and have plans for a further nine, so we're well on the way to making sure that all children under five and their parents benefit from having the support they need at all-purpose centres."

• The Children's Centre is available for 120 children aged 3-5 in redesigned light and spacious open plan double units. The centre is open from 8.15am to 5.45pm Monday-Friday for 49 weeks a year.