THE Town of Bassendean has halted plans to sell the Wind in the Willows early childhood centre site following community opposition and the withdrawal of a prospective buyer.

At its ordinary council meeting on March 24, council resolved to immediately cease the public disposal process for the Wilson Street site and instead explore a revised approach for the future of childcare services in the area.

The decision follows significant backlash from families and residents, who raised concerns about the proposed sale of the publicly owned land and its implications for local childcare access.

The prospective purchaser, the Cha Cha Cha Group, withdrew from the process.

The decision also came after widespread community feedback during the public notice period, as well as issues raised at a special meeting of electors on March 25.

Bassendean Mayor Kathryn Hamilton said the outcome reflected council’s commitment to responding to community concerns.

“This resolution ensures the town can move forward and explore further opportunities with government, community stakeholders, and potential service providers to deliver the best possible outcome for families,” she said.

“This proposal listens to our community, keeping families at the centre of our decision making, while ensuring we responsibly manage public assets.”

Under the revised approach, the town will now work in partnership with state and federal governments to investigate alternative options, including potential funding for new or improved childcare facilities.

The future of the site remains uncertain, with council yet to confirm whether the land will still be sold under a different model or retained for community use.

Further decisions are expected at the April 28 ordinary council meeting, where councillors will consider feedback received through public submissions and motions raised during the special meeting of electors.

In the meantime, existing childcare services at the Wind in the Willows centre will continue operating while the council assesses its next steps.

The town has also released documents relating to the proposed disposal process following public concern about transparency, providing insight into the initial proposal and community response.

The Wind in the Willows site has been a key issue for local families, with many expressing concern about the potential loss of childcare services and the broader impact on the community.

The decision to halt the sale marks a shift in council’s approach, with the process now reset as it seeks a solution that balances community expectations with long-term childcare planning.