Surrey’s Strawberry Hill Hall opens a new licensed child care centre, offering 25 spaces for children aged 3-5 and supporting local families.
Surrey families have a new reason to celebrate: the city has officially opened a modern child care facility at the newly rebuilt Strawberry Hill Hall, expanding access to quality early learning for local children.
A Fresh Start for a Heritage Landmark
On May 2, 2025, Surrey City Council marked the grand opening of the fully licensed Strawberry Hill Hall child care centre. The facility, which began welcoming children on April 1, offers 25 much-needed spaces for kids aged 3 to 5 years. This milestone follows the reconstruction of the historic hall, which was originally built in 1909 and rebuilt after a devastating fire in 2021.
Community-Driven Support for Families
The new centre is more than just a building-it’s a vital addition to Surrey’s growing child care network. “With strong support across community tables, working families and single parents in Surrey will have more access to high-quality and inclusive care that meets local needs,” said Rohini Arora, parliamentary secretary for child care.
Mayor Brenda Locke echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of accessible child care for supporting thriving families and a vibrant community.
A Collaborative Investment in Early Learning
The project was made possible through a $425,172 grant from the ChildCareBC New Spaces Fund, backed by both provincial and federal investments. Alexandra Neighbourhood House was selected as the facility operator, ensuring experienced management and a welcoming environment for young learners.
Modern Facilities in a Historic Setting
The rebuilt Strawberry Hill Hall, completed with a $2.5 million capital budget, features a dedicated play area in adjacent R.A. Nicholson Park, blending heritage charm with modern amenities for children’s development and play.
Meeting Surrey’s Growing Demand
Surrey, home to B.C.’s largest youth population, continues to expand its child care offerings. The new Strawberry Hill Hall centre is part of a broader city initiative that has seen licensed child care spaces grow by 88% since 2022, with more projects on the horizon to support local families.
In summary:
The opening of the Strawberry Hill Hall child care centre marks a major step forward for Surrey, delivering new opportunities for children and peace of mind for parents-all within a cherished community landmark
