Foundation for Jewish Heritage
Welsh Jewish Heritage Centre
The Foundation for Jewish Heritage (FJH) works to preserve and find sustainable new uses for Jewish Heritage at risk. The FJH commissioned Cultural Associates Oxford to support the development of the Welsh Jewish Heritage Centre (WJHC) in Merthyr Tydfil.
This project seeks to convert the Grade II listed Merthyr Tydfil Synagogue, the oldest surviving synagogue in Wales, into a heritage centre exploring Welsh Jewish history, the Holocaust, and the importance of intercultural dialogue. CAO was tasked with developing a business plan and an activity and interpretation plan (in partnership with Headland Design) to support FJH’s Round 2 Delivery Phase application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The business plan will outline a sustainable financial and operational model for the WJHC, including identifying potential income streams and addressing governance and resourcing needs. The activity and interpretation plan will focus on engaging diverse audiences and bringing the WJHC's themes to life. CAO is employing a multi-phase methodology involving desk research, stakeholder and community consultation, visioning workshops, and financial modelling.
The project is ongoing, and CAO aims to deliver comprehensive plans that will help the FJH secure funding and bring the WJHC to fruition. With NLHF funding, we hope the WJHC will ensure that the Merthyr Tydfil Synagogue is preserved for future generations as a vibrant centre for learning and cultural exchange.