Bevis Marks – Foundation objects to second development

The Foundation for Jewish Heritage has been supporting the historic grade I listed Bevis Marks synagogue in its campaign to oppose two massive building developments in its vicinity.

We wrote a detailed submission to oppose the first tower block proposal in Bury Street and the campaign succeeded in blocking it.

An application for a further development at 33 Creechurch Lane, a mere 3 metres east of Bevis Marks synagogue, is now under consideration.

The Foundation objects to the 33 Creechurch Lane plan for the same reasons we opposed the development on Bury Street.

As a result of its sheer size, the Creechurch Lane proposal would distort the experience of the users of Bevis Marks synagogue, which dates back to 1701. The small courtyard where the synagogue is situated would suffer from a much reduced sky space which would permanently shroud the whole building in a blanket of darkness.

Chief Executive Michael Mail commented, “Important heritage sites within the City need to be protected. Bevis Marks synagogue is a remarkable building that also has a unique place in British history being the Jewish community’s oldest functioning synagogue. We were delighted with the sensible decision made by the City of London to reject plans for the tower block at Bury Street. The proposed development at 33 Creechurch Lane, if approved, would have an equally detrimental impact on the synagogue and should also be rejected. "

The Foundation’s statement of objection can be read below:

Foundation for Jewish Heritage_Comments on plan app ref 18_00305FULMAJ (1).pdf

Download PDF • 238KB

To join the campaign objecting to the Creechurch Lane plan, go to the link here here:

For those active on social media, use the hashtag #SaveBevis

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