A state-of-the-art Jewish student house will open in Leeds in time for the next academic year.
The redevelopment of the existing Leeds Hillel in Springfield Mount will offer expanded facilities. As well as an enlarged dining and lounge area, there will be meeting rooms, study spaces, high speed internet connections and wi-fi zones. Another feature will be a chaplain’s office where students can go for confidential discussions.
Students have been consulted on facilities and the layout of the building.
In addition to the non-residential centre, kosher accommodation will be offered nearby through an arrangement between UJS-Hillel and the Leeds and Leeds Metropolitan universities.
UJS-Hillel chief executive Daniel Marcus said: “The new Leeds Hillel is great news for the whole Jewish student community and is part of UJS-Hillel’s commitment to meeting the needs of 21st century students.”
The Leeds project is one element of a programme to upgrade Hillel premises across the country.
A new London Hillel in Euston has been well supported and will be officially opened in May by Lord Coe. Bristol and Nottingham students are also enjoying enhanced facilities and other regional centre improvements are in the pipeline.