Hertsmere Council's planning committee has unanimously approved Radlett Synagogue's Project Renewal, a £1.75 million rebuilding and refurbishment scheme.

Described by Radlett board member Paul Krisman as "an affordable and realistic plan for regeneration", it replaces a number of earlier and more ambitious proposals, downgraded in part as a consequence of the economic downturn.

Synagogue chair Andy Katz told the congregation: "For many years, we have got by, accepting what are inappropriate and inadequate facilities to pray, to meet, to learn and to socialise. This will be the first time in the history of the Radlett community that we will have a purpose-built facility."

Under the plans, the current synagogue - the former Radlett Village Hall - will be integrated with the neighbouring house, also owned by the shul. Both will undergo interior and exterior refurbishment, providing enhanced facilities desperately needed by the congregation's growing and youthful membership. As well as expanded synagogue space, there will be a multi-function kiddush hall and classrooms, cloakrooms, a kitchen and disabled facilities.

Speaking immediately after the council planning meeting, Mr Krisman said that receiving approval "a day before Yom Kippur is a fantastic outcome and one we hope will spur on all of our members to play their part".

It will be our first purpose-built facility

Fundraising would now begin in earnest and the community needed to raise £750,000 to start work on the project.