Groundbreaking ceremony held in Borehamwood for Jewish Life Centre

Over one hundred community members attended the groundbreaking of the new £1.8 million Jewish Life Centre in Borehamwood, a milestone for the town’s thriving 15,000-strong Jewish community.

The event at a former NatWest Bank was held in memory of real estate veteran and Kisharon Langdon trustee Nigel Henry, whose passion for the project helped shape its vision. His children Sophie, Emma and Ben addressed the crowd, speaking about their father’s belief in the Centre and their determination to carry his legacy forward following his death earlier this month.

Guests included Dan Ozarow, Mayor of Elstree & Borehamwood, Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council, Marc Amron, the Leader of the Opposition, and many other town and borough councillors.

Rabbi Chaim Hoch, who together with his wife Leah leads the Jewish Life Centre, currently operating near Shenley Road, said: “This building represents far more than bricks and mortar. It is the result of years of belief from this community. What began with a small marquee in a garden has grown into something much bigger, a permanent home for Jewish life in Borehamwood.”

Leah Hoch added: “We are encouraged by the breadth of support this project has received. From civic leaders to families, professionals, donors and volunteers, this must be a collective effort. No contribution of time, energy or support is too small. We will bring this vision to life together.”

Proposals for the new centre include an art lounge, co-working space, a commercial kitchen for events, a shul and formal event space for bar and batmitzvahs, nursery and children’s hub, sensory room and exercise studio.

With the ceremonial milestone complete, the Centre will launch its main fundraising campaign over Purim to raise the remaining funds needed to bring the project fully to fruition in spring 2027.