Struggling families 'shocked' to see Giggles play centre close

Giggles on West Howe Industrial Estate announced it will be closing on Friday, December 23, after its landlord decided they want the site back.

Owner Lisa Dennis is devastated to close the family-run business and worries about what is going to happen to all the vulnerable families without their support.

Lisa said: "The news has come as a big shock to the community. 

"We provide so many people with affordable care, we aren't just a play centre we are a nursery too. 

"But we were also so much more than that, we helped families who were struggling, we gave out free food to vulnerable people, and people also came to us to keep warm.

"We have done a lot for the community and we are one of the few places that provide people with affordable care, I worry where all the struggling families will turn to now.

READ MORE: Giggles playcentre in Bournemouth to close next month

"We became generational, people came to us as kids and we saw them come back with their children.

"I'm going to miss every single one of our customers, and I know they will miss us too.

"I've been too upset to even read the comments on our social media."

The landlord decided to sell the building as well as the land and gave Giggles said they were given the choice to buy it for £1m or vacate the building. 

Not being able to afford the option to keep the business, they have no choice but to vacate. 

Lisa added: "We simply don't have the financial means to fight the landlord. 

"We have looked for another property in the area but they are all very expensive or are not tall enough buildings for our needs. 

"I hope we can re-open one day but at the moment with the world working, it doesn't look likely.

"If you don't have a lot of money then there aren't very many options left, with the rising cost of electricity and bills, it doesn't leave us with much choice."

The play centre has assured its customers that any parties booked for next year will be refunded.