THE HOLY ROSARY PROJECT

In 2022 it was confirmed that our Bolam Street communal lounge would be affected by plans to decommission and demolish Redheugh and Eslington Court Flats.

The challenge since then has to identify a community space for our services to move into, and the Holy Rosary Parish House presents an exciting opportunity, not just for our existing services, but also for the wider community to have a new venue for a range of activities and services local residents to benefit from, right on the doorstep.

This page is dedicated to keeping our community informed about the project and how it is developing, and can be used by local residents to share your views and get involved.

Thank You for Sharing Your Views!

Numbers

134 residents filled in our community survey, either online or in person. Most people who took part lived or live in the community or have links through family, friends or work.

100%

Everyone who responded expressed their wish of saving the Holy Rosary Parish House for community use, and everyone who responded felt it was important to have services for older people based in the heart of the community

Your Activities

The most recommended services and activities shared with us by local people included those that help people with the cost of living, and that bring people together. You told us you'd like an affordable weekly food market, advice drop-ins, exercise classes, a gardening group, DIY/upcycling groups, baby clothing swap and share events, and a hot meal take away.

Your Comments

We received so many comments in support of having a community space in the neighbourhood.

“Years ago the Teams was a hive of activity for all ages young and old. Changes came and the Teams didn’t fair very well. Cuts were made and the community spirit has gone which is a shame. By keeping the Holy Rosary church house for the community it shows that there may be a little bit of the Teams spirit restored.”

Our Progress so Far

The council have confirmed they will support us to move from the Bolam Street building to the Holy Rosary Parish House
The Diocese have confirmed they will grant us a 20 year lease for the Holy Rosary Parish House
We have assessed the environmental sustainability of the building
We have carried out a condition survey and full asbestos survey
We have spoken to the church, local organisations and residents to ensure any activities we deliver from the building align with local needs, wishes and values
We have been granted planning permission by Gateshead Council
We have worked with an architect and structural engineer to look at the best way to make the building accessible
View the Plans for the Building Here
We're writing funding applications to help us to fund the refurbishment of the building to make it accessible. We have passed the expression of interest stage for the Community Ownership Fund, and will apply in the next window which is expected to open at the end of May 2024

Get Involved

Join us at our meetings to help make decisions about the building and activities by becoming a Trustee

Talk to us about your ideas. What services do you think the community needs most?

Become a volunteer at our lunch clubs, men's groups or at any of the new activities we deliver from the building

Have a question about the Holy Rosary Project?

Get in touch using any of the contact details below....

Address

Holy Rosary Parish House

Northumberland Street

Gateshead

NE8 2PQ

Phone

0191 4900945

Email

teamsbenshamcommunitycare

@outlook.com

Lunches, Social Groups, Transport and Activities for Older People in Gateshead

0191 4600297