Some 250 children train at Island Gymnastics, and owner Anna Petts said it had been a ‘panic’ to find a new home for the business on short notice over Christmas.
It was among almost a dozen fitness and activity businesses who were sub-letting studios from Ignite Studios at Rock Health – the former Guernsey Bowl site in Victoria Avenue – which had been served an eviction notice at the start of Christmas week.
Ms Petts said she met with the manager of Oatlands Village, Hilton Ruch, that day to enquire about a potential studio space.
‘I phoned them at about 4.30pm and 20 minutes later, Hilton was showing us around,’ she said.
‘It was such a fast turnaround, they’ve been absolutely great. It was a massive relief and we’re just very happy to be here.’
While considering potential venues on site, Mr Ruch was struck by the idea to convert the upstairs area of Oaty and Joey’s Playbarn, which is used for extra restaurant seating.
He and his team removed all the tables and chairs and installed safety netting above the balcony to create an enclosed, large space for the vibrant school to continue.
‘They’ve been so accommodating,’ said Ms Petts.
‘Hilton has been amazing, we’re so fortunate to have this space. It could’ve been a very different story.’
Mr Ruch said a plan has been made to accommodate the group for a year, with potential to stay longer.