Members of The Liberal Synagogue Elstree (TLSE) and Radlett Reform Synagogue have approved a plan for the two Hertfordshire communities to merge and form what will become one of the largest Jewish communities in the UK.
The new community, which will boast a membership of over 1,100 households, will initially operate as one community across two campuses.
There is a long term ambition to create a single site that will provide a space not only for the merged community, but also for the wider Jewish population in Hertfordshire and beyond. The aim is that the community and its final site will act as a centre for Jewish and Jew‘ish’ life, to offer opportunities for daily engagement, learning, culture and connection.
The decision brings together two well established synagogues serving Reform and Liberal Jews living in Bushey, Elstree, Borehamwood, Shenley, Radlett, Watford, St Albans and across the wider county and its surroundings.
By merging, the communities aim to create a Progressive Jewish centre that blends the traditional strengths of synagogue life with the energy and inclusivity of a modern community hub. The vision is to serve Jews of all ages and backgrounds, regardless of how they choose to engage with their Judaism, and to offer multiple pathways into Jewish life.
Spencer Grant, Chair of Radlett Reform, said: “While the precise nature of the new community will continue to be shaped collaboratively by our members, it has been clear to us since we started conversations just under a year ago that coming together provides the strongest foundation for long term sustainability and growth.
“Pooling resources, expertise and leadership will enable greater reach across the region and allow engagement with those who may not currently belong to a synagogue or who feel disconnected from communal life. We have been successfully collaborating for over six months, so formally merging is the next logical step. We are at the start of an exciting journey.”
The merged community will bring together a diverse rabbinic and professional team, offering depth of leadership, enhanced pastoral care and expanded educational and cultural programming. This includes supporting Progressive Jewish children attending Orthodox schools, ensuring they feel affirmed and connected to their home community.
The new entity will also create a stronger, more visible voice for Progressive Judaism in Hertfordshire, both within the Jewish world and in wider civic life. Plans include increased interfaith engagement, deeper involvement in social action inspired by the value of Tikkun Olam, and sustained connections with students while they are at university.
Leigh Renak, Chair of TLSE, said: “We are fortunate to be in an area where Jewish life is flourishing. Our area of Hertfordshire is recognised as having one of the fastest growing Jewish populations in the UK. We have access to a wide range of kosher and kosher style food outlets, Jewish nurseries and schools, and vibrant public spaces where Jewish identity is openly celebrated.
“The region continues to attract young Jewish families as well as grandparents relocating to be closer to their families and this gives us a unique opportunity to evolve how we meet the needs of Progressive Jews, whether they consider themselves Liberal, Reform or just not quite sure.”
Together, the two communities believe this step will sustain Jewish life today while laying strong foundations for the next generation, creating a community that is both deeply rooted and forward looking. A shared home, built together, for all. It will continue to offer a mix of Shabbat and festival services using both the Liberal and Reform siddurim, so that members can choose which to attend.
It is envisaged that the merger will formally be completed by January 2027, with final ratification to come at each community’s AGMs in May 2026. During this time legal formalities will be completed, a name for the community will be chosen and the building committee will continue to explore options for the long term solution.
Co-Leads of The Movement for Progressive Judaism, Rabbi Josh Levy and Rabbi Charley Baginsky, who both attended the EGMs, said: “This moment is a real expression of what Progressive Judaism makes possible. Radlett Reform and TLSE are choosing partnership, creativity and shared responsibility, while honouring the different histories and practices that have shaped them.
“The decision to build something new together in Hertfordshire, without asking anyone to give up who they are, is exactly the kind of confident, generous leadership our Movement exists to support. We are proud of both communities and excited to see this new partnership grow, deepen and flourish in the years ahead.”