UK's oldest synagogue sets skyscraper principles

The UK's oldest continuously-run synagogue has launched three proposed "guiding principles" for developers and the local authority in a bid to safeguard its future against tall building proposals.

Bevis Marks Synagogue, a Grade I-listed site located in the east of the City of London, was founded in 1701 by Spanish and Portuguese Jews escaping the Inquisitions.

The site has fought several recent planning battles, including a 43-storey tower scheme on Bury Street refused by the City of London Corporation in late 2024.

A primary concern was the building's impact on Kiddush Levana, a Jewish ritual requiring sight of the moon that has been practised at the site since its founding.

To address future applications, the synagogue has launched a four-week consultation on a draft planning framework.

The document outlines three "guiding principles" for the City of London Corporation and potential developers: recognition of the synagogue's unique importance, early consultation to mitigate harms, and the prevention of harm.

It asks that future proposals form a "positive relationship" with the site, with a specific focus on protecting the ability to see the moon and stars.

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Rabbi Shalom Morris said: "We felt it was really important for there to be a document that would help those who are landowners around us, and the City as a whole, to understand what the characteristics are of the synagogue that need to be protected, so that as development happens it can be done so in a sensitive way."

He said there was a "lack of understanding and awareness" in recent planning proposals, adding that at a time when the Jewish community is being threatened, it is important to reaffirm its long-standing presence.

"As a place that is still alive it also represents the idea that the Jewish community is still here and isn't going anywhere, and actually we need to celebrate that and recognise that.

"It is part of what makes England, England," he added.

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