In 1998 Gateway Church acquired the former Acomb County Primary School and raised the £700,000 needed to restore the building from a virtually derelict condition into a thriving centre of activity in the heart of the community. 

 

Now known as The Gateway Centre, the building houses a weekly programme of events that includes parent, carer and toddler groups, youth activities, a café drop-in for the over 60’s and other interagency work. Also available to the community is a free Debt Advice service and a confidential advice and support service for those facing unplanned pregnancy offered by Reflect. Dayspring Counselling has now joined the range of helping agencies available at Gateway, offering a fully confidential service.

 

Gateway Action was set up in 2007 to further develop the community related activities based in the Centre. The growing demand for use of the facilities led to a decision to construct a major new extension during 2008, requiring a further £800,000 to be raised by the charity.