ONE of Blackpool’s Grade II listed buildings is back on the market less than 12 months after it was sold.
The synagogue in Leamington Road is on offer for £130,000 freehold by Thompson Property Investments, which bought it last year.
While the former place of worship – featuring distinctive Accrington brick Byzantine style – is for sale, the other buildings at the rear of the site are the subject of a planning application to build five luxury apartments.
However, the move has been criticised by Jewish Heritage.
Dr Sharman Kadish, from the organisation, said it was on their list as one of 10 former synagogue buildings in the UK which ought to be preserved.
She said: “Ideally we would like to see it preserved, possibly used as a holiday facility.
“It is up for £130,000 for just the synagogue.
“We are not against flats on the site but we think revenue from the flats should be used for the upkeep of the synagogue.”
Elaine Smith, from Blackpool’s Civic Trust, said it was one of the most important architectural buildings in the town.
She said: “It has the most beautiful stained glass, among the best I have ever seen.
“It would be a terrible shame if anything were to happen to it.
“Ideally it could be used for community use.”
Adam Taylor, from commercial estate agents Duxbury’s in Blackpool, confirmed it was up for sale at £130,000.
“He said: “It is a beautiful building of great character and there is a lot of interest in it.”
Blackpool Council say the planning application is currently on hold pending the consideration of a more detailed heritage statement submitted by the applicant.
A spokesman added: “We are aware of the heritage considerations when it comes to this building and these factors will be taken into account in determining the application.”
The synagogue is believed to have been built between 1916 and 1926 and was later altered in 1955 and 1976.
It was in use until 2010 when the last Rabbi, David Braunold and most of the remaining congregation left for the nearby St Annes Hebrew Congregation.
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