Once the Chief Rabbi had to live in London’s East End. For more than a century, holders of the office dwelt closer to the West End, in Hamilton Terrace, St John’s Wood.

But the next Chief Rabbi, Ephraim Mirvis, will have his home further out in the suburbs. The United Synagogue has confirmed that Rabbi Mirvis, who lives near his Finchley Synagogue, will be moving to an address in Hendon.He will also be equipped with a West End base to meet and entertain guests, which is to be developed for him at Central Synagogue. Rabbi Baruch Davis, chairman of the Rabbinical Council of the US, believed “people will welcome the Chief Rabbi living in the heart of the Jewish community.

“There has been a geographical shift over the years and this is a reflection of it.”
US president Stephen Pack said: “Having the residence in Hendon will provide a wonderful opportunity for Rabbi Mirvis to connect with and have an impact on the many communities across north-west London which will be within walking distance.”

The Central Synagogue base would provide “a prestigious central London environment for our next Chief Rabbi to host honoured guests as well as holding formal receptions”.

But no decision had been taken on Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks’s residence in Hamilton Terrace — which it is said could be worth in the region of £10 million.

The US said the property was in “need of significant renovation” and all options about its future were being explored.