RoyceCo has this week announced the acquisition of a prime development site at 66 Thewlis Road, Pakenham. The group has received a planning permit for a state-of-the-art $7.5 million childcare centre on the site.
National childcare operator Story House Early Learning, which manages over 50 centres nationwide, has been confirmed as the operator for the new facility.
Construction is set to commence imminently, with Carelli Constructions appointed as the builder. The centre is targeting completion in May 2026 and is expected to be operational by July 2026.
The centre will include state-of-the-art security features, safe play areas, and child-friendly layouts which minimise risks while fostering independent exploration and learning.
RoyceCo has assembled a team of expert collaborators to ensure the facility prioritises accessibility, allowing all children, to fully engage with their surroundings. The centre has been designed to offer convenience for the growing local community of Pakenham.
Environmental sustainability is also front of mind in the centre’s design, it will feature energy-efficient systems, green building materials and sustainable landscaping.
Pakenham is one of Melbourne’s fastest-growing suburbs, with the recently opened Pakenham North Primary School (2025) highlighting the increasing demand for essential services in the region.
This strategic acquisition strengthens the RoyceCo’s commitment to delivering high-quality early childhood education and care services in growth areas across Victoria.
“Our mission is to create essential services that support thriving communities, the Thewlis Road Child Care Centre is the first of many in our pipeline of strategically located developments across the state” said RoyceCo Director Joseph Du Rieu.
“Pakenham represents a key growth corridor, and we’re proud to contribute to its future by delivering a best-in-class childcare centre.”
The Pakenham project is part of RoyceCo’s expanding pipeline, which includes four additional childcare sites across Victoria. As the developer continues to strengthen its footprint in early childhood development, it remains committed to designing innovative, sustainable, and community-driven projects.
