Dance academy doubles in size with new premises

A Dudley-based dance academy has doubled in size with a move to new premises.

Elite Dance Company, which was established in 2016, has relocated from a single studio location to the former public library in Quarry Bank, near Brierley Hill.

The new premises has doubled its teaching space with two dedicated studios and also gives owners Lucy White and Kelly Homer an administration area.

White said: “The lease on our old premises was up, and I just thought I would have a look to see what else was available. I saw the old library, which had been used a gym, and thought it would be the most amazing space for our dance studio.

“It was within walking distance of our old premises, so our students wouldn’t have to travel any further, and had everything we could possibly want in a dance studio. I feel it was really meant to be.”

Elite Dance Company teaches acrobatics as well as a host of different dance styles.

White said: “Initially, we were a little nervous about expanding the business, especially during lockdown. However, having more space means we have been able to open our classes safely, with plenty of room for social distancing.

“We’re also planning on expanding our timetable once restrictions are lifted further. We cannot wait to fully go for it in our new home.”

The building is owned by Stewardson Developments which bought it in 2009 and redeveloped the site into a commercial property.

Director Mark Stewardson said: “It’s great to be able to support Elite Dance Company in the growth of their business and we look forward to them nurturing talented youngsters in the area.

“The redevelopment of the old library has been a great success story and we are always looking to add properties to our portfolio so are keen to acquire other sites requiring redevelopment.”

The unit was marketed by Hexagon Commercial Property.

Chris Jeffries, commercial property surveyor at Hexagon Commercial Property, said: “The property, which benefits from a rare D2 ‘Leisure’ planning use, was put to our extensive database and we had strong interest before even going to market. Within the first week we had three solid offers.

“We chose to proceed with Lucy and Kelly, respecting the traction Elite Dance have built in the area to date and we are sure they will build on their success.

“It’s great to experience such a buoyant market in the current circumstances.”