Mayor of London Boris Johnson recently took part in a ceremony to show support for the building of a new Jewish Community Centre in Hampstead, North London.
At the event, which took place in October, the politician joined Dame Vivien Duffield, who is the person behind the project, to ceremonially shovel earth into the foundations. In total, around 200 individuals attended the gathering, including representatives from all the main branches of Judaism, community leaders, London Assembly members, local councillors and the Mayor of Camden.
When it is opened, the construction will provide amenities for many people.
It was designed by architects Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands and when it opens in 2013, the 35,000 square feet building will be filled with events and activities and it is intended to invigorate Jewish life.
Meanwhile, with the principle of inclusiveness at its heart, it will welcome everyone to its doors, including religious and secular Jews, as well as non-Jews who have an interest in the culture. Of course, such people can also pick up valuable information via the Israeli Embassy website.
Set over three floors, the centre will feature an open space and a residential block of around 14 two-bedroom flats. Meanwhile, the ground floor will contain a multi-purpose hall and kosher cafe/bar/freelance hub. There will also be a screening room and workshop space.
Furthermore, there will be community areas, changing rooms, meeting venues and learning spaces.
Also, parents will be able to make use of a nursery that features 75 full day care places for youngsters up to the age of five.
Commenting on the development, Mr Johnson said: “This wonderful building will be a fitting home for London’s Jewish Community, as well as an excellent new centre for Londoners of all faiths.”
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