A SPECIALIST neuro, stroke and spinal injury centre has scooped a series of awards including North-East Project of the Year.

The Gateway, at Middlehaven, in Middlesbrough, was opened in January to provide rehabilitation care to patients.

The £8m facility was given the accolade by the RICS Renaissance Awards. It also won Best Supported Living Development at the Better Healthcare Awards.

Chris Smith, director of business development at housing association Thirteen Group, said: “This is fantastic news for the Tees Valley.

“It is a landmark for Middlehaven and for healthcare standards nationally and we are proud that it can provide so many people with such essential services and help them recover and move back into the community.”

Boda Gallon, chief executive of healthcare group Keiro, said: “From the beginning we wanted a striking building that fitted into the Middlehaven area. This recognition confirms that we have created something of national importance.

“Our aim is to provide an integrated 'pathway' of specialist care, support and rehabilitation services, from hospital to home. The Gateway building is a model example and one we will look to roll out in other areas.”

Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s executive member for regeneration, added: "These awards are national recognition that these are some of the very best facilities anywhere in the UK and further help to put the wider Middlehaven development firmly on the map.

“Erimus Housing and Keiro are to be congratulated on this latest achievement, and I am sure it will pave the way for future success.”