The centre will help more parents return to work

Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin is relocating its headquarters from Cardiff to open an all-Wales centre of excellence.

Construction of its new base, which will provide 100 childcare places at Boulevard Street, is underway thanks to European Objective One funding.

Formed 30 years ago, it has overseen an 800% increase in early years groups taught in Welsh (Cylchoedd Meithrin).

This organisation provides a world-class service in childcare and related training Councillor Ray Quant

It has also supported the establishment of hundreds of Welsh-medium parent and toddler groups (Cylchoedd Ti a Fi) and nurseries throughout the country.

The centre of excellence will provide training for childcare providers, teachers and parents.

The new childcare places are aimed at helping more parents return to work.

Chief executive officer Hywel Jones said it will provide services previously unavailable in the region.

"A central feature of this facility is that it will be entirely bilingual," added Mr Jones.

"It is essential that these top-class services are available to both local and national users through the medium of Welsh."

Ceredigion Council and the Welsh Development Agency have provided financial support.

Council cabinet member Ray Quant said: "This organisation provides a world-class service in childcare and related training.