Contentious plans to demolish and redevelop a Highgate synagogue have been given the green light by councillors.

On Monday a Haringey Council planning committee unanimously voted through proposals to knock down Highgate Synagogue, off North Road, to create more space for worshippers and improve facilities.

Residents living in neighbouring blocks of flats had objected on a number of grounds, including noise and disturbance from a proposed roof terrace. However, as a response to the concerns, the terrace will now only be used for one eight-day period a year for the Jewish festival of Sukkot.

Rabbi Nicky Liss, the synagogue’s rabbi for six years, said at the meeting: “We recognise the concerns of our neighbours both in terms of the inconvenience during the construction period and in terms of the new building.”

Highgate ward councillor Bob Hare, who objected to the proposals, said: “I think it was right that it went through. Everything we asked for was willingly agreed.

“The residents still have concerns about the construction and about the basement. I hope we can as councillors broker an effective meeting between residents and the synagogue.”