The restoration of Merthyr Tydfil Synagogue, one of Wales' most important Jewish heritage sites, is a step closer to becoming a reality after grants were secured from the National Heritage Lottery Fund and the Welsh Government's Transforming Towns programme.
The £6m project will transform the Grade II listed building into a Welsh Jewish Cultural Centre, celebrating the history of Jewish communities in Wales and offering an activity and events programme. The council said the centre will enhance Merthyr Tydfil's visitor offer and provide much-needed cultural facilities.
Meeting with families
On Friday, August 13, Vikki Howells MS, representatives from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the council and the building owners met with families who have strong connections to the synagogue.
Councillor Anna Williams-Price, Merthyr Tydfil Council's heritage champion, said: "We are delighted to see this project progress and learn about the exciting plans for the building.
"Much of Welsh Jewish heritage is at risk of being lost, so this project is very important in educating us about the community's valuable contribution to cultural, political, academic, economic and social development.
"It was wonderful to meet with the families today to learn about their recollections of this impressive building and what it means to them to see if brought back to its former glory."
Timeline for works
Plans for the transformation are well underway, and physical works to the building are set to start in 2027, with an opening date expected in the autumn of 2028.
