Indoor play plan

PLANS have been drawn up for an indoor soft play centre in Uckfield offering a specially designed children's play area, seating for carers and quality catering.

The man behind the idea is hoping it will be fifth time lucky for his scheme because previous efforts to find accommodation have failed.

John Hopper has submitted plans to Wealden District Council to covert the old Friday Ad premises on the Bellbrook Industrial Estate, Bell Lane.

He has previously tried in Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough but his problem is finding the right type of building. 'It has to have a large area and so typically play centres are placed on industrial estates but obviously it does give councils concern if a children's play centre is next to light industry.'

But the Uckfield site has very little through traffic, good parking and it is away from neighbouring business, said Mr Hopper.

He lives in Speldhurst and until November last year worked in the City as an underwriter at Lloyds. But then he had the chance to give up his job and look after his three-year-old son and four-year-old daughter part-time. A nanny shares the childcare while Mrs Hopper works in the City.

'The idea came about through looking after my kids. It is difficult to find somewhere to entertain them,' said Mr Hooper. He was keen to provide quality play, catering and toilet facilities.