The London Jewish Cultural Centre (LJCC) has announced it will merge with Jewish community centre JW3 which opened last year.

A joint announcement was today made by the chairmen of the LJCC, based in Ivy House, North End Road, Golders Green, and JW3, which opened in Finchley Road last year.

Michael Goldstein, chairman of JW3, said: “In the 11 months since opening, JW3 has established itself as a vibrant community centre providing a diverse and unique programme of arts, cultural educational and family activities in its magnificent new building that also houses an outstanding restaurant, bar and café.

“We are delighted that we will be joining forces with the LJCC to add further breadth and depth to our programming. They rightly have a wonderful reputation for their outstanding programme of high-quality cultural and educational activities that have earned them a loyal following.”

Michael Marx, chairman of the LJCC, said: “We are delighted to make this announcement today. This will provide the opportunity to significantly advance Jewish education in many new directions.

“The experience of LJCC over 30 years, and the LJCC’s highly regarded team, are a good complement to JW3 and its resources. The community in London, and further afield, can only benefit from this exciting development.”