Oxford Chabad centre plans new synagogue in partial redevelopment

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 14:02 · Archive

Chabad of Oxford has submitted plans to demolish part of its Jewish community centre on Cowley Road to build a new synagogue, lecture theatre and meeting space.

Chabad of Oxford, part of the global Chabad-Lubavitch movement, has submitted plans to Oxford City Council for the partial demolition of its centre at 75 Cowley Road. The demolition would remove 75A Cowley Road, currently a family and community kitchen with a guest room, to make way for a new synagogue, lecture theatre and meeting area. The group, established at the site in 1988, currently operates across two locations to support Jewish students and community members.

The redevelopment has been prompted by growing financial pressures and uncertainty facing the group's existing arrangements. A planning statement cites "a substantial increase rent demand, lack of principal ongoing support, and the college's uncertain long term plans" for 61 George Street, where Chabad rents a 2,100 square foot space. The new building is described as meeting "the community's particular organisational requirements" and offering "an improved and excellent environment to occupiers and the local community into the foreseeable future".

Alongside the demolition and reconstruction of 75A, plans for 75 Cowley Road itself include minor internal alterations. The site has undergone numerous changes over its 37 years of community use.

How it is being reported

• New synagogue planned in Jewish community centre redevelopmentThe partial demolition of an Oxford Jewish centre for a new synagogue has been proposed amid an "urgent need" for a permanent space in the city.Oxfordshire Guardian · 19 Oct, 13:54
• New synagogue planned in Jewish community centre redevelopmentThe partial demolition of an Oxford Jewish centre for a new synagogue has been proposed amid an "urgent need" for a permanent space in the city.Oxford Mail · 19 Oct, 13:54

In this story: Chabad of Oxford · Chabad-Lubavitch movement · Oxford · Cowley Road · George Street

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