A BUSINESS owner may sadly have to close her doors after 35 years in business.

It comes as Dawn Dawson, director, principal at Dawsons Academy of Dance Stage, became aware that the car park - that parents use as a drop off area – is now closed.

Dawn said she didn’t have any prior notice until she went to the car park on the day it was closing.

She now fears how long is left for the future of the business.

She added: “I’m just a bit upset because I wasn’t made aware.

“It’s been there for so long.

“We also stuck it out through lockdown and raised money for Bolton Hospice online.”

The Bolton News: Little Lions in Lion King productionLittle Lions in Lion King production

Although the nearest car park is at the Octagon Theatre, Dawn is concerned about families having to make their way to the academy late at night, following a series of recent incidents in the town centre.

She added: “I don’t know how long my future will be in the town centre to be honest.

“Some of the teachers have grown up and now bring their children.

“We are like one big family.”

A spokesperson for NCP said: "We can confirm that over the last fortnight we have displayed A1 signs in three locations (entrance and tariff board areas) throughout the car park that inform customers that NCP will no longer be running this car park. 

"The other car park alongside it remains open for business as normal."

The Bolton News: NCP car park noticeNCP car park notice

Dawn is also concerned that it would be too expensive to relocate, because the company is privately run, and on a lease, with no additional funding.

Over the years the academy has raised £100,000 for various charities, with some of the students also going on to study degrees and take exams at the academy.

Some students have starred in some big productions, including Wicked, Le Miserables, Emmerdale, Hollyoaks, and more.

Dawn said: “I love working with children in the first place.

“There’s some real talent and some amazing teachers.

“I need support really because I don’t know where to go

“But it’s not just about the school, it’s about the local history.

“And we have been here longer than most businesses.”

The academy was also most recently a part of a special themed Peaky Blinders charity evening, where actress and award-winning TV writer Sophie Willan, made a special appearance, as well as the Mayor of Bolton Cllr Linda Thomas.