Bournemouth Hebrew Congregation leaders have welcomed the decision of Culture Secretary Ben Bradshaw to reject an application from English Heritage for the shul complex to be given listed status.
The shul had opposed the listing, which would have complicated the sale of the town centre premises, described as a "last gasp of red-brick seaside orientalism" by the Jewish Heritage in England guide.
In a letter of explanation, Mr Bradshaw was said to be "persuaded by the argument that extensive alterations have had a detrimental effect on the architectural interest of the synagogue and that little survives of the original 1911 synagogue both externally and internally".
English Heritage has expressed regret at the rejection, claiming the shul interior retains "its original Edwardian character and many internal features including commemorative windows which add to its special interest. The synagogue compares well with other Grade II listed synagogues." It can lodge an appeal.
