A pole and dance studio is having to move after plans to create an off licence at its venue in Margate were approved.
J N Express Ltd applied to install convenience store signage at 107 Ramsgate Road where Solstice Studios has been based for the last two years.
Solstice Studios boss Ro Taylor and many of the students had hoped to fight eviction from the premises but Ro is now focusing on relocation with a new venue ‘in the pipeline.’
The applications to install signage for Jn Asain Store and another to replace the timber shopfront were granted this week.
One student told The Isle of Thanet News: “Solstice Studios is a pole and dance studio run by owner Ro and a small team of teachers. It moved into its current home two years ago after previously being evicted from another Margate so this could be converted into flats.
“Since relocating, Ro has invested heavily in the studio, purchasing new equipment, bringing new teachers in and expanding the classes on offer, and building a thriving community after signing a five-year fixed lease.”
The student added: “The cost and stress of the eviction and trying to fight this through the courts, relocation, equipment storage and lost income, presents a major challenge for this small but vital business for the community.
“Solstice is more than just a dance studio for its students. It is a vital, inclusive space offering a variety of different movements, which has allowed its community to build confidence, strength and fitness while exploring self-expression and dance.
“The Studio has a special place in the Margate LGBTQ+ community, standing in proud alliance with non-binary folks and the Trans+ Community.”
A crowdfunder to help with relocation costs still has a few days to run and can be found at – https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/save-solstice-studio#
