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Bevis Marks leaders criticised after withdrawing objections to skyscraper development

Historic shul changes position on building plans after meetings with developers - and a 'generous contribution' towards restoring synagogue courtyard

July 20, 2018 13:05
BEVIS MARKS BY JOHN SALMON-CREATIVE COMMONS

ByEllie Jacobs, Ellie Jacobs

2 min read

Bevis Marks, the UK’s oldest synagogue, has been accused of “a lack of ethics” over its U-turn on opposing a 56-storey development close to its City of London site.

In April, the Sephardi shul sent an “urgent” email to congregants urging them to register objections to an application for planning permission for the new office space in Leadenhall Street, a block away from the Grade I listed building.

Leaders were concerned the proposed development would “deprive [the shul] of daylight and overshadow it”.

David Ereira, vice-president of the S&P Sephardi Community, warned: “We fear this will present a huge overbearing presence in the historic setting of the synagogue and will cut out the natural light both through the south facing windows and to the historic courtyard where we welcome the public and hold so many events. We will be submitting strong objections.”