Got £125,000? The distinctive red brick former United Hebrew Congregation synagogue in the English seaside resort of Blackpool is up for auction (again), six years after it was deconsecrated — and that’s the guide price. The auction will take place September 6.
The synagogue, a Grade II listed building dating from 1916-1926, was sold in 2012 after it was deconsecrated following its closure by its congregation, which could no longer maintain it.
It was on the market again in 2013, and the following years were marked by back and forth dbates and decisions as to planning permissions for the building. There is now planning permission for conversion of part of the building to form five two bedroom apartments with associated car parking.
States the Jewish News web site:
Despite council objections, planning consent was subsequently granted to turn the building into a series of two-bedroom apartments with car parking, and auctioneers said the development could still be done while respecting the building’s origins.
Watch a video from the last service in the synagogue, May 13, 2012: