Two of Leeds' Orthodox synagogues could merge in new plans

"We are excited about the potential benefits of the project, which include the opportunity to create a stronger, more vibrant community that can better serve the needs of our members by providing greatly enhanced service levels.”

The pair said that the plans for a new shul for the community had already “made excellent progress.”

They added: “Both presidents, together with the executive and honorary officers, have an absolute commitment to achieving our goal of creating a new shul that will bring together the best of both of our communities.

Mr Gross had previously told members that Etz Chaim had approached BHH 15 years ago with a proposal to create a “new combined shul”.

While focus groups involving members of both congregations BHH had been set up to sound their views, the process had been interrupted by Covid.

Both Mr Gross and Mr Port said they hoped “to be able to go to a members vote in the final quarter of this year 2023.”

13 years ago, BHH’s Rabbi Jason Kleiman publicly advocated a merger not only between the two communities but one that also brought in the United Hebrew Congregation as well.

“It’s a demographics issue," he argued. "We have three very expensive buildings, all much of a muchness. The argument is not about a dwindling community - it's the exact opposite. I want to see a united community, a new entity with the three leaders of these shuls working together.”