In 2002 Byker Bridge Housing Association formed a unique partnership with St Silas Church, Byker, in order to preserve the main church building and develop the site for the benefit of parishioners, Byker Bridge Housing Association and the wider Byker community.

The scheme divided the 105 year old Church, a Grade II listed building, into three distinct areas. One part was retained for worship to serve 4,500 people in the parish. A second additional open space is now used as a hall by the local community, Byker Bridge Housing Association and the Church.

The third space created a new, open plan, mezzanine floor which is now the head office of the housing association. Redevelopment of the church building was completed in June 2004.

The community hall is popular and used every day.  Age Concern is using the space twice per week for activities and lunch for their elderly members. Byker Bridge Housing Association also benefits from space in which it can deliver in house training to staff.

The redevelopment project has included the regeneration of the adjacent site. 19 single person bedsits and a Support Workers flat have been purpose designed and developed by Byker Bridge Housing Association.  The scheme has provided move on accommodation for 19 vulnerable tenants of the Association who have lived in hostel and/or shared housing schemes who require less support and feel confident in living more independently.

May 4th 2005 saw the official opening of Brian Roycroft Court.  Pat Roycroft, widow of our late Chair Brian Roycroft, opened the scheme. A new landscaped garden has been created in which the war memorial has been relocated. The Rev. Sue Falconer and the British Legion performed the rededication ceremony. The afternoon was a great success and over 100 people attended.