Redevelopment of Jackson’s Row
Letter from the President, 18 July 2008
Dear Friends,
We have been working on the redevelopment project for over four years now.
As you will be aware, the housing and property market is currently going through a very sticky patch and the banks are nervous regarding financing new developments. Nevertheless, we are fortunate to be in partnership with a developer such as Modus, who feel strongly committed and wish to continue with the project, despite these difficulties.
However, because of the current financial climate, Modus need more time to organise what is necessary to achieve a successful development and they have asked Manchester Reform Synagogue for an extension of time under the terms of the Agreement between us, which will delay the project by nine months. The synagogue’s trustees have agreed in principle to the extension and a Deed of Variation is currently being drawn up between our respective lawyers. This effectively means that the projected date for vacation and demolition of the current building is now scheduled for December 2009.
I am as frustrated as you are over the time
taken, but feel reassured that our partner Modus, is still committed to
delivering our new synagogue. We will keep you informed over the coming months
as to any news and updates as they happen.
Sincerely,
DANNY SAVAGE
President
Press Release: 19 March 2007
AGREEMENT REACHED ON REDEVELOPING JACKSON'S ROW SYNAGOGUE
Manchester Reform Synagogue have just signed an Agreement with developers to redevelop their city centre site at Jacksons Row. The whole development is being provided for by the developers in exchange for the right to build residential apartments above the new Synagogue.
This exciting new scheme involves demolition of the existing Synagogue and the building of a new, state of the art, fully furnished complex incorporating a large Sanctuary with tiered seating, a separate Beth Hamidrash, large Banqueting and Functions Hall, Internet Café and Lounge area, Study and Presentation rooms, offices for the Rabbi and administration, a secluded Open Courtyard for Succoth celebrations and access to rooftop gardens. Many of the old, treasured features of the existing synagogue will be retained and reinstalled in the new one.
Specialist Israeli security consultants introduced by the Community Security Trust, have been involved in the designs and specifications to ensure the latest security systems and materials are employed to afford maximum protection for the congregation and visitors.
Israeli contribution also includes the importation and use of Jerusalem stone in the construction, and Kibbutz Lavi, specialists in synagogue furnishings, will be supplying and fitting the synagogue Bimah and Sanctuary seating. The design provides full disabled access and facilities including a wheelchair lift platform to the Bimah and Ark area and the building will utilise the latest ‘green’ technologies.
The Project has been managed on behalf of the Trustees, Executive and Council of the Synagogue by a Redevelopment Committee formed in 2003, comprising Brian Livingstone (Chair) who was then Treasurer, Danny Savage who was then current President and Mark Levy, who was to become next President. The Committee has been ably advised throughout by Colin Hoffman and Martin Davies of Kuit Steinart Levy, the Synagogue’s legal adviser.
“We owe a lot to Sir Howard Bernstein (CEO of Manchester City Council), with whom I first discussed the Project in October 2003”, said Brian Livingstone, chair of the Redevelopment Committee. “Sir Howard gave us invaluable advice and guidance on how best to proceed and has been encouraging and supportive throughout”.
Plans, drawings and specifications have been drawn up in close co-operation with Manchester City Council planners and the City’s Conservation Officer to ensure that the Development will enhance the look and feel of a very important conservation area very close to the Town Hall, in the heart of the city centre.
The developers are Modus Properties Ltd, part of the £billion Modus Property Development Group headed by Brendan Flood. “We are delighted to have found Developer Partners who are experienced and substantial and I have found Brendan Flood, who has become personally involved in the scheme, a gentleman with whom it is a pleasure to do business”, said Brian Livingstone.
Rabbi Silverman, Minister of Manchester Reform Synagogue, said “I am excited at the prospect of a 21st Century Synagogue with all its facilities and the opportunity it offers to enhance inter-faith relationships within the City Centre.
It is anticipated that a full planning application will be ready for submission by July and, if all goes according to plan, demolition of the Synagogue will commence at the beginning of 2008.
During the construction period the Synagogue will be housed in temporary accommodation. The whole development is expected to be completed within two years.
For details of the reasons why the redevelopment is taking place, click here.