The UK’s oldest synagogue, Bevis Marks, is spearheading efforts to establish central London’s first eruv.

Planning applications have been submitted to the City of London, Islington and Hackney councils for the religious boundary, which allows Orthodox Jews to carry or push items on Shabbat.

The eruv will also cover parts of Southwark and Tower Hamlets, including areas along the Thames, and will largely utilise pre-existing structures such as walls and lampposts for its boundaries.

It will be administered under the auspices of the Sephardi Beth Din of the S & P Sephardi Community and be the first eruv in its 350-year history.

The synagogue believes that as well as serving the growing number of Jews living and working around the City of London, an eruv would attract Shabbat tourism.

Bevis Marks is anticipating completion next year of its Lottery-supported visitor centre under the patronage of King Charles.

Its rabbi, Shalom Morris, said the eruv would be a contribution to London’s economic recovery while ensuring the shul’s vitality “with a project that will serve the Jewish community, both locally and those from further afield”.

S&P Senior Rabbi Joseph Dweck said it would “greatly broaden the possibilities for observant Jews to enjoy the rich experience of Bevis Marks and the City of London over Shabbat. It signals a warm welcome for singles and young families to live in the area. It is a wonderful development.”