7/3/2019 | Childcare & Education

West Sussex day nursery sold to growing childcare group

Rose Cottage Day Nursery, located in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, has been sold through specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, to an existing operator in the childcare sector.



Originally opened in 2015, Rose Cottage provides day care for up to 52 children and operates from a converted barn, making the most of the rural location with exciting outdoor space including a play area, woodland area and an area with animals for the children to interact with. The nursery was awarded an Outstanding rating from Ofsted for its first inspection and is well known in the local area for delivering exceptional childcare. 

Situated just outside of Haywards Heath town centre, Rose Cottage sits close to main local road and rail links, providing an accessible and convenient location for busy parents to drop off and pick up their children.

Having been operated by the previous owners, Paul and Nicola Bowen, since it was established, the husband and wife team decided to sell the nursery in order to pursue new avenues. Mr Bowen comments, “Sophie Willcox at Christie & Co was fantastic, from initial contact to completion she was always on hand to deal with any queries we had and was incredibly efficient and thorough. This was our first experience of a business sale and Sophie’s communication and expertise were invaluable in ensuring we understood the process throughout.”

Rose Cottage was purchased by existing operators Ray and Rikke Phoon, who own nine nurseries across Sussex and plan to continue to expand their growing group, Saurus Nurseries. Mr Phoon comments, “Sophie Willcox at Christie & Co has been excellent throughout the whole process. We have been really impressed with her professionalism and dedication in getting the deal completed.”

Sophie Willcox, Associate Director at Christie & Co handled the sale and comments, “It was a pleasure working with Paul and Nicola from start to finish. I wish them the best of luck in their new home and future ventures. The nursery generated a lot of interest due to its Ofsted rating, unique outside play area and location. I am delighted to have assisted Mr and Mrs Phoon in expanding their group and hope to work with them again in the future.”