Can I keep my expired Work Permit while I wait to apply for a new Non-B Visa in Thailand?

Question about my expiring Work Permit:

I own an operating company here in Thailand and hold a work permit as a director. I used to have a Non-B Visa until recently but the visa expired and I could no longer apply for a new Non-B as I couldn't go out of the country (I used to apply for a 1-year multiple entry Non-B visa every year in a Thai Embassy abroad) so I had to switch my visa to the Covid extension of stay. Now on my 3rd extension.

Our company did not have the 4 Thai employees needed for me to apply for a Non-B extension inside the country either as there is another foreign owner.

My Work Permit is due to expire in about one month and my question is:

Do I need to cancel the Work Permit or is there any way I can keep it (renew it or just keep it expired and renew it later) as I plan to apply for a new Non-B Visa in the near future when the borders are fully open?

Appreciate any valuable input.

Thank you kindly