A NURSERY which opened in York 17 months ago has been sold - and now more investment is expected.

The Academy Childcare nursery, attached to the Next Generation Club, in Windmill Lane, off Hull Road, is one of 14 branches acquired by Primary Steps for £2.2 million. Angela Baker, nursery manager at York, said today that none of the 21 jobs would be affected when the new Primary Steps banner goes up. "It's all very exciting. We've already been told that there will be extra investment and a meeting will be held next month to decide the level."

She understood that the firm links between the health and fitness club and her nursery would continue.

The Academy Childcare nursery opened in York in June 2003. It is registered to take care of 68 children from three months to five years and is open six days a week. Already it caters for up to 50 children per day. It also offers crche facilities for parents who want to drop off their children while they use the Next Generation Club facilities.

Updated: 11:11 Thursday, January 27, 2005