A beloved community dance academy in Salford is being forced to relocate due to a sharp rise in rent costs.
Studio 96, a community interest company offering dance classes for children and adults, can no longer afford its current premises at Sundance Court, Kansas Avenue. It plans to move to a unit just 50 metres away at Cody Court, pending a change of use application submitted by director Suzanne Roberts.
The academy, which has operated for six years, provides competitive dance training, community arts, inclusive classes, and a weekly 'Little Bees' session attended by around 100 families. The sessions help parents build networks and toddlers develop confidence and dexterity.
In a fundraiser to support the move, Mrs Roberts wrote: 'Due to a significant increase in rent, we need to move into a new studio space to continue offering these opportunities. Our vision is to create a modern, fully equipped space where dance classes, community groups, and play sessions can thrive safely for years to come.' She added that the new space requires essential work, including flooring, heating, and updated equipment, to meet health and safety standards.
The academy has raised nearly £12,000 from local businesses and families. Donors highlighted the club's impact: local mum Kayley said the classes were 'life changing for me and my daughter,' while gran Gail Harris noted her granddaughter 'has gone from a shy quiet girl to a much more confident young lady.'
Salford Council has matched the donations pound-for-pound and is considering the application to convert the former industrial unit into a dance and gymnastics space. Mrs Roberts emphasised that the move is not an expansion but a necessary relocation to ensure sustainability and continued service to the community.
Minor internal works will create open studio spaces, a reception area, toilets, and lockers. No external alterations are planned except for modest signage.
