Leeds MP says new eruv will have ‘hugely beneficial effect’

A Jewish MP has paid tribute to councillors in Leeds after a Jewish religious boundary was approved by local planners.

The boundary, or eruv, was welcomed by Fabian Hamilton, the representative for Leeds North East, who said it was likely to have a “hugely beneficial effect”.

The decision was taken by Leeds City Council and this week and allows Orthodox Jews to perform some otherwise-prohibited activities on Shabbat, including pushing wheelchairs or prams.

“This is the first of its kind in Leeds, and I am so pleased that it is being set up to help those in the Jewish community who may have young children, or who might be disabled, to take part in more social activities during Shabbat,” said Hamilton.

“I’m delighted that Leeds City Council granted permission… The eruv will have a hugely beneficial impact on the whole community.”`

An eruv is marked by thin wire stretching from the top of poles to mark the boundary, and plans were submitted to erect 52 poles around areas including Alwoodley, Moortown, Meanwood, Lidgett Park and Chapel Allerton.