Guidance on a new "flexible model" for children's centres, expected next month, has been welcomed by many councils asked to create a large number of centres in 2006-08.
This is likely to allow centres in more affluent areas to run far fewer services. However, children's campaigners have said councils should not compromise on the core offer of good early years education, care and family support (Children Now, 18-24 May).
Hampshire County Council has been asked to create 53 new centres. Marilyn Barton, acting head of its early education and childcare unit, said greater flexibility on what was expected of a children's centre would give authorities more scope to build on existing services and develop partnerships with the private and voluntary sector.
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