Pastor Paul Ellison outside the current premises of Kings Church, on Swan Street
An empty bank in Gateshead is being brought back into use by a church.
Kings Church Gateshead is relocating to the former Lloyds Bank branch on West Street in the town centre.
The church, whose sign is visible from the Gateshead flyover, is currently located on Swan Street but is planning to move to be closer to the community.
Pastor Paul Ellison said: “If you are smack bang in the middle, it opens up opportunities to be a community hub rather than just a church.”
Mr Ellison wants the church space to be made available to local groups for meetings, talks and music practice.
The Grade II-listed building has been empty since 2014 when the branch closed, and recently suffered water damage from a burst pipe.
Kings Church plans to take over not only the ground and first floor of the former bank, but also the old Post Office building immediately next door.
The church will take over the former bank and the old Post Office building
The main church hall will be located in the former bank building and will include a stage where the church’s band can perform.
The old Post Office will be home to a community café, as well as offices.
Kings Church carries out a number of services in the community, including providing clothing and free breakfasts to those in need.
Flat development
Both buildings are owned by Malhotra Group and will be leased to Charis Developers and Consultants, which will sublease the properties to the church.
Kings Church is currently applying to the council for planning permission to carry out refurbishment work inside.
The Old Dispensary building, next to Old Town Hall, could also be brought back into use.
A planning application, lodged by Christine Nugent, seeks to redevelop the former office building into flats.
If approved, the listed building would be converted into six one-bed apartments and two two-bed apartments.
