Redbridge Jewish Community Centre is to conduct a feasibility study on its future as its leaders rethink a move to the £10 million King Solomon High development in Barkingside.
When the Ilford Jewish Primary moves to the KS site in September, 1,400 children aged from two to 19 will be educated on the campus. The scheme — seen as a means to regenerate Redbridge Jewish life — could incorporate the transfer of the Jewish Care-administered community centre, which is also home to Clayhall Synagogue.
Jewish Care director of care and community services Neil Taylor said this week: “Our discussions with King Solomon High School have slowed down due to their focus on the relocation of the Ilford Jewish Primary School.
We are actively working on how best to secure the future of the centre while ensuring we meet the changing needs of the community. This work includes exploring opportunities to develop the existing site.
“We are about to undertake some qualitative market research to consult with members of the Redbridge community.
We are doing this work as we are committed to ensuring our plans are shaped by current and future needs. Our final decision will be made once we understand the implications of the various options.”
Centre manager Richard Shone said a move to the King Solomon site “was not off the table. There was always an aspiration to do something to restructure the services. We want to hear from the users and potential users. The current building is 40 years-old and not fit for purpose.”
Jonathan West, a governor at both IJPS and KS, said: “It would be fantastic for the centre to come on board. But it is for Jewish Care to decide if it is a feasible move for them.”
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