The future of a west Dorset preschool is uncertain once again as governors propose to close the facility next month.

St Michael’s Preschool in Lyme Regis was set to close in July after governors announced it was ‘unviable to run’ with a projected deficit of £20,000 for this year. However, following consultation with Dorset Council, headteacher Nick Kiddle and former chairman of governors, Michaela Ellis, wrote to parents stating that they were ‘revoking the intention to close the preschool immediately and there will be provision for children from the start of term is September’.

Parents and supporters formed a fundraising group and petition to help save the facility.

However, in a letter sent to parents last week, signed by Mr Kiddle and new chairman of governors, Betty Wood, it outlined plans for a consultation and proposals for the preschool to close on November 22.

It said: “As a result of increasing costs, maintenance and falling income, the preschool has become unviable to run, with a projected deficit of £20,000, an increase on the previous years. As a result, the governors propose the closure of the preschool.

“This would also mean that the age range of the school would change from two to 11 years, to four to 11 years as we would no longer be able to accept children of preschool age. This would come into effect from November 22.

“As part of our work with Dorset Council, Salisbury Diocese and following subsequent meetings held within the community, we would like to give parents, carers and staff further opportunity to share any feelings and thoughts about the closure and reduction of age range so that the governors are able to consider and support any next steps.”

The consultation period will run until October 18, after which, the governors will meet again to confirm any actions and decisions they may be able to take. Once they have taken into account all the responses, confirm the decision either way, which will be shared on October 24.