New life for old synagogue
A 19th century Jewish synagogue in Wolverhampton that closed more than 10 years ago is to reopen as an Anglican church.
The place of worship in Fryer Street, opposite the historic Chubb buildings in the city centre, is undergoing a £105,000 transformation. Some of the original features, including gallery panels and the Jewish Star of David on the roof, will be restored and retained.
The building first opened in 1858 but closed in 1998. It was bought by the St Silas Continuing Church Trust for £73,000 the following year. The trust only secured funding last year and workmen finally moved onto the site two weeks ago.
Assistant Bishop Rev Edward Malcolm said: "I was there this week and it's getting along quite nicely. We are looking forward to finishing it and opening it up to the public."
Brierley Hill-based WH Building Contractors, which specialises in restoring churches, will be carrying out the work over the next seven months.
