The slab at the Barton Street development went down this week and Forbes Preschool director Amy Shine is thrilled to see the project finally come to fruition.

“I’m a bit nervous but very excited,” she said.

“After five years, there’s definitely mixed emotions.”

Ms Shine said the children are particularly excited and have already been getting their priorities straight.

“The children are very excited - we came down here for a look the other day and their biggest question was where the bike track will be,” she said.

Member for Orange, Andrew Gee was in Forbes yesterday to inspect the progress of the new building.

“It’s very exciting for Forbes,” he said.

“I’m delighted that the state government has contributed $1.3 million towards it.

“It’s a wonderful community resource used by the people of Forbes and surrounding districts.”

Mr Gee said preschools were a vital part of the community and a key driver of growth.

“If country towns don’t have those preschool places to offer, people don’t want to move to that town,” he said.

“We have to have this infrastructure here to help economic growth and the importance of providing preschool services for our children is a vital part of their education.

“This is going to help anchor preschool services in Forbes for decades to come.”

Ms Shine was very grateful for the support of the state government and Forbes Shire Council.

“It’s nice to have Andrew out to show him what we’re doing,” she said.

“We’re very proud of it so it’s nice to show it off.”

Ms Shine said it’s also great to drive past and see local people working on the project.

“While it benefits the children, it’s great to see the whole community is involved and we’re committed to ensuring we can employ as many locals as possible,” she said.

The new preschool is expected to be complete by December 20.