One of the island’s best-known dance academies has submitted a fresh planning application in a bid to find a new home.

Gena’s Dance Academy had submitted a change-of-use planning application in August to convert the upper floor of an industrial unit at Snugborough Trading Estate into a new dance studio.

But, despite being in a race against time to find new premises, the application was withdrawn following objections over ‘parking and neighbour dissatisfaction’.

Now the academy has submitted another application to transform Design House at Hills Meadow Industrial Estate in Douglas into a dance studio.

The academy’s current premises at Olive Court in Peel are due to be demolished as part of a new housing development, with the existing lease expiring in October 2027.

The planning statement says: ‘The proposal involves the adaptation and use of an existing commercial building to provide a dedicated dance academy comprising four dance studios together with associated changing, staff, waiting, storage and welfare facilities.

‘Gena’s Dance Academy has operated for approximately 19 years and currently provides dance training to more than 200 students across a range of dance styles. The proposal has been designed around the existing building and seeks to make efficient and sustainable use of an established commercial property.

‘The principal structure and external envelope of the building are retained, with the proposed changes being primarily internal and associated with the adaptation of the premises for dance tuition.’

The academy has secured a long-term lease on the building, which has a covered garage providing 15 parking spaces, with two additional spaces outside. There are also kitchen and toilet facilities.

The planning statement says: ‘The use will comprise structured classes rather than unrestricted public leisure or entertainment. Students will attend at scheduled times under the supervision of teaching staff, with the building providing dedicated studios and ancillary facilities.’

The premises would accommodate one studio, changing facilities, storage and toilets on the ground floor, with three further studios on the first floor.

The planning statement says: ‘The academy has developed a strong reputation for the quality of its teaching and the achievements of its students.

‘Students regularly achieve strong results at local, UK and European competitions. Over its history, approximately 25 students have secured places at leading UK performing arts institutions.

‘The academy also provides additional classes for GCSE and A-Level dance students and delivers examinations in six dance styles. These activities support students pursuing both academic and professional pathways.

‘The academy contributes to the wider cultural life of the Island through performances at events including Tynwald Day and charity events. It also produces a biennial theatre production at the Gaiety Theatre.’

Those running the academy say they have carried out ‘extensive’ searches elsewhere on the island.

The planning statement says: ‘The need for the relocation is genuine. The existing Olive Court premises are due to be demolished as part of a housing development and the existing lease expires in August 2027.

‘The applicant has undertaken an extensive search for suitable alternative premises and has identified significant constraints with other properties.’

The application will be considered by planners in due course