Birch Terrace synagogue in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, has been at the heart of north Staffordshire's Jewish community since work began on it in 1922. It was the first purpose-built synagogue in the area - prior to that the community used a converted Welsh chapel, and even earlier, a private home for worship. But after 84 years serving the Jewish faithful, the synagogue is in need of considerable repairs. With the decline in community numbers in the area, the building is now too large for the current congregation and so it has been sold to developers. It was deconsecrated in a special ceremony on March 29th this year. A smaller replacement synagogue is now being built in Newcastle-under-Lyme and should be ready in August. Junction 15 Productions sent this film of the deconsecration to Staffordshire TV. To watch the video click on the link below:
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