Award-winning Portland Nurseries Group has acquired Huddersfield-based Bradley Bar nursery, growing the group from four to five settings.

Bradley Bar nursery, located on Bradley Road, will be renamed Bradley House with an official open day on Saturday July 2.

Portland Nurseries was founded in 1991, one year after Bradley Bar nursery, making them two of the longest established nurseries in Huddersfield.

Portland Nurseries’ joint managing director Michael Murphy said: “Bradley House has always had a good reputation. We started around the same time and we are delighted to bring a nursery of its standing into the group.

“It fits well with our portfolio of nurseries, which are focused on providing industry-leading childcare, excellent indoor and outdoor areas and convenience for parents.

“We are looking forward to bringing the Portland Nurseries brand of early years education to Bradley House and building on the excellent foundations that have been established over the last 30 plus years.”

Michael confirmed all Bradley House staff will be retained and the acquisition will mean fresh opportunities and improved career prospects across the group.

“It was important for us that we retained the staff as we know how tough the economic climate is at the moment,” added Michael.

“Moreover, it will bring new career prospects and personal growth opportunities, such as cross-site roles, training and wellbeing programmes for our current staff members and the staff at Bradley House.”

The acquisition brings to an end a lengthy process of search and due diligence for Portland Nurseries who have targeted more acquisitions in the future.

“We have ambitions to grow but the important thing is that we scale in the right way that doesn’t compromise the care we provide for families and our reputation,” added Michael.

“We employ several very experienced managers with over 100 years’ experience between them as our senior team to ensure consistency, best practice and values are upheld so we can deliver outstanding care to children.”