Two Manchester Reform Synagogues have started discussions on a potential merger.

Initial talks between the city centre Manchester Reform and North Manchester’s Sha’arei Shalom have examined effective ways to share campuses and resources. Leaders stress the move would not mean the closing of premises.

The proposed merger would create one of the larger Reform communities outside London, with more than 800 members.

The two congregations have already been sharing services during the pandemic.

Letters and e-mails have gone out to congregants of both communities, highlighting the complementary nature of the two synagogues. A series of consultative meetings will follow over the next three months.

Manchester Reform’s principal rabbi, Robyn Ashworth-Steen, said: “We have so much potential to create a strong, visible and proud community which attends to the needs of our diverse members. Joining resources, places, leaders and skills means the future is so bright.”

Any agreement would be subject to approval by the boards and members of both congregations.