Cremorne Synagogue plans expansion in response to growing congregation numbers

An increase in the north shore’s Jewish population has prompted expansion plans by one of the region’s largest synagogues. See what’s proposed:

An increase in the north shore’s Jewish population has prompted expansion plans by one of the region’s largest synagogues.

A new multipurpose facility including a library is among the features of development plans recently lodged by Cremorne Synagogue to North Sydney Council.

The $487,000 upgrade would enable the synagogue to host weekly bible study classes and a childminding area during regular synagogue services.

Plans stated the proposal was in response to growing numbers in its congregation.

A concept plan of the redevelopment.

“An increasing number of Jews are settling in the lower north shore area, and a large portion have joined the congregation,” the plans stated.

“This has created the urgent need to increase and upgrade the existing synagogue’s facilities for members including the need for childminding facilities, a new library and a place for small groups to attend biblical studies.

“The proposal addresses all of these important needs.’’

The plans come after the synagogue undertook a $145,000 security upgrade of its Yeo St site in 2020 to boost the safety of its members which planning documents stated were “at risk of attack, harassment or violence stemming from racial or religious intolerance”.

An artist render of the expansion.

The Cremorne Hebrew Association said the “urgent need to upgrade” security also served as a “pre-emptive” measure in anticipation of the increasing number of Jews settling in the lower north shore area.

In its latest plans, the synagogue said the expansion would continue to “maintain acoustic and privacy amenities to the nearby residential neighbourhood”.

An increase in cars is also not anticipated partly due to Orthodox Jewish tradition which specifically forbids the use of a cars and dictates walking to the synagogue on the Sabbath on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings

The synagogue is located on Yeo St, Neutral Bay.

“As the synagogue is within reasonable walking distance to most congregants’ homes, the majority will walk to the synagogue,” the plans stated.

“Noise levels from the services are (also) minimal and less than those from a Christian church service, as orthodox synagogue services do not allow artificial amplification or use of musical instruments (organs, guitars etc.) during services.”

Other works proposed for the 50-year-old site include storage areas, new stairs and lifts.

The Mosman Daily contacted the synagogue for more details about the plans but did not receive a response at the time of publication.