Three Nottingham women are celebrating after forcing their city council to reconsider a decision to close a family centre.

Mothers Donna Sheffield, Angelique Wilson and Mary Shaw were in the process of sueing the authority in the High Court.

They had been granted permission for a judicial review of the council's decision to close Larkdale family centre (pictured), in North Sherwood Street, and the Independent Street family centre.

There has been a massive public outcry over the decision by city social services to close three family centres, saving £1.7m. The third earmarked for closure is the Phoenix centre, in St Ann's.

The council said it had to reduce the number of surplus places in its nine family centres, which are only 60 per cent full.

But families say they provide important support and counselling for parents and children under five who are vulnerable or on the child protection register.

Now the council says it will reconsider its closure decision for Larkdale - in exchange for the judicial review over Independent Street being dropped.

It will be carrying out proper consultation and assessments of the families who use the centre before making a further decision.

The women's solicitor Ian Hale said: "These parents were not consulted about the proposals for closure, nor did the council carry out any assessments of the effect that the closure would have on these and other families.

"After starting a High Court judicial review, the council offered to keep Larkdale open at this time and carry out proper assessments and consultation.

"My clients are pleased that the council has backed down. They will now do all they can to persuade the council that it ought to keep Larkdale open permanently."

Councillor Dave Liversidge, chairman of social services, confirmed a deal had been struck with the three women.

He said: "The city council has come to an agreement regarding the judicial review claim in relation to Larkdale and Independent Street family centres without the need for the claim to have been considered by the court.

"No judicial review has taken place. The council has agreed to review the decision to close Larkdale family centre and to further consult current service users before a final decision on the future of the centre is taken.

"The claimants in turn have agreed to withdraw the judicial review in relation to the Independent Street family centre, which will close as planned."

Story and picture courtesy of the Nottingham Evening Post