A CENTRE which provided a base to refugees, asylum seekers, the homeless and other vulnerable people has announced its closure this week.

Middlesbrough’s John Paul Centre on Grange Road, Middlesbrough, will close its doors on February due do a series of safety reasons reported to the trustees of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Middlesbrough, which owns the building.

The reported catalogued multiple concerns including unsafe electrical and heating systems and fire safety issues. The report concluded that the funds to make the centre compliant with the necessary safety measures would run into hundreds of thousands of pounds, forcing the diocese to act immediately and decide to close on the final weekday of Mass celebrations.

In a letter to centre users and groups, the Bishop of Middlesbrough, the Rt Rev Terence Patrick Drainey, said the decision had been taken with great regret.

“The diocese is uncertain at the moment what the future holds for this much-loved building and we will be exploring what our options are in the coming weeks and months,” he said. “With God’s grace, goodwill and cooperation, the Diocese of Middlesbrough hopes and prays that good will come from this difficult situation.”

Previously the town’s Irish Centre, the building was once home to a community of Blessed Sacrament Fathers and then clergy from the Redemptorist order, who left in 2016 after 21 years serving the town.

Since then it has been under the pastoral care of the Sacred Heart Parish on Linthorpe Road.

The centre is home to several charitable organisations including the North East Refugee Service, Investing in People and Culture and homelessness charity De Paul UK.

Religious groups including St Stephens, Free Church of England, Good Tidings Bible Church and an African worship group also use the building.

After a direct request to Mayor Andy Preston, Middlesbrough Council has offered to try to find temporary accommodation to organisations currently using the building and a senior council representative attended a meeting on Monday February 17 when stakeholders were informed of the closure.

“So many good things have emanated from the John Paul Centre over the years,” said Bishop Terry. “So much goodwill and positive action has been generated and practical help offered, especially through the generosity and dedication of the many volunteers who have given their time and efforts willingly and tirelessly.”

After a direct request to Mayor Andy Preston, Middlesbrough Council has offered to try to find temporary accommodation to organisations currently using the building and a senior council representative attended a meeting on Monday February 17 when stakeholders were informed of the closure.

Bishop Terry said he was ‘very grateful’ to the mayor and the chief executive for their concern and their offer of help.

Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston said: “The John Paul Centre has been a focal point in the community for many, many years, but sadly closure looks inevitable.

“We’re 100% committed to doing everything possible to help here. Middlesbrough needs the great charities and organisations that use the centre to continue their valuable work.”