You need to see it to believe it
Brighton’s 2nd most magnificent building is undergoing restoration
On Thursday, 27th October 2022, I seized the rare opportunity to step inside one of Brighton’s most prestigious buildings.
The Synagogue situated on Middle Street has not been used as a place of worship for seventeen years, opening its doors for special events only. The 1874-built grade two listed building is now in an advanced state of disrepair.
English Heritage describes the Middle street Synagogue as Brighton’s second most important historical site after the famous Royal Pavilion, and I quickly realised why;
Stepping inside the Synagogue from the unassuming facade reveals a spectacular array of colours where Victorian architecture meets exquisite elegance. Elaborate, intricate fittings adorn every internal aspect elevating it to a building of significant importance. And, despite the derelict condition, the building holds on to its splendid grandeur and historical position of prominence.
Currently, areas within the Synagogue are inaccessible due to old and dangerous timbers.
Restoration of the building is long-overdue, and works to restore the Synagogue to its original splendour will commence at the end of October 2022.
The original estimated restoration cost of 2.5 million has significantly reduced to £500,000, of which £165,000 remains outstanding. Raising the shortfall of £165,000 has prompted a fundraising appeal by Rabbi Hershel Rader inviting people to visit the Synagogue to see for themselves the state of the building inside.
Howard Hamilton, an experienced project manager for restoring listed historic buildings, will manage the restoration project. During my visit, Hamilton delivered a short talk explaining his proposed plan for the renovation works. His plan for the project divides into four phases.
Hamilton explained that “the restoration must respect the original architectural integrity of the building”.
The estimated budget for phases one and two is £500.000, and currently, there is enough funding to commence the works, which will run for 22 weeks. Scaffolding goes up at the end of October 2022 at the cost of £50,000.
A drone survey on the roof revealed it’s in good order following a new roof and surrounding flashing in 2010 using lottery funds.
Phase three will be restoring the gallery and requires further fundraising.
Hamilton states that it’s essential to maintain the Synagogue post-restoration, and strategic business uses are needed to fund the ongoing maintenance of the building.
Hamilton appears to have some ideas to put forward by way of income producing for the future maintenance of the Synagogue;
One of his suggestions is to create a centre of Theological education which will be an income-producing resource. Hamilton describes it as “a high-tech classroom accessible for all the local schools”. However, this will be subject to planning permission.
Phases three and four will remain on ‘On-Hold’ until further funds have been raised. Crowdfunding is ongoing.
Hamilton didn’t elaborate on what he proposes for phase four of the project but said, “that is a long way off yet”.
Local builder P.H.Beck won the contract for the building works. Hamilton explained that “creating jobs for local people it’s important for the building to provide an ongoing contribution to society”.
I met with Barbara and Stuart Ruben during my visit, celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary. They married at the Middle Street Synagogue forty-eight years ago on 27/10/1974. They were delighted to find the Synagogue open for them to come and reminisce about their special day.
By Justine Swann
