The Ark Synagogue

This abandoned grade 2 listed synagogue was built in in 1936/1937 and was designed by architect Ernest Alfred Shennan. Built in a rare Art Deco design it features a standard brick-faced façade but has distinctive tall vertical windows. The synagogue closed in 2008 after serving the local Jewish community for over 70 years as the congregation merged with another local synagogue. The synagogue was given upgraded grade 2 status and features on the Heritage at risk register. Future plans include conversion of the building into sheltered housing for the Jewish community, however this scheme is likely to be abandoned in favour of the sale of the building to a third party organisation. I have recently read that a lot of the contents have been removed from the building including the scrolls in order to preserve them from vandalism, Scaffolding has also been erected around part of the building where it seems repairs to the roof maybe taking place.