Scientology Church Wins Approval For New Events Arena At East Grinstead Headquarters

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The Church of Scientology has been granted planning permission to create a new events arena at its UK headquarters in East Grinstead.

Mid Sussex District Council's Planning Committee approved the application on Thursday, allowing the organisation to change the use of two fields at Saint Hill Manor.

The development will enable the church to erect a temporary marquee for up to 84 days each year, including for its Annual International Gathering, which attracts more than 6,000 visitors from around the world.

The approved plans also include reinforced ground surfacing, new toilet and washroom facilities, a generator enclosure, a concrete ring, an internal access road and improvements to one of the site's entrances from Saint Hill Road.

Overflow parking will also be created using reinforced cellular paving grids. The plans allow space for up to 113 vehicles on 30 days each year, 313 vehicles on 13 days, and up to 683 vehicles on no more than seven days annually.

The council received 271 letters supporting the application and 18 objections.

Those opposed raised concerns about noise, the potential impact on wildlife and the effect on the surrounding countryside within the High Weald National Landscape.

Supporters argued the scheme would bring economic benefits to the area while helping to tackle parking problems on nearby roads during major events.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) also objected, describing the proposals as inappropriate development in the countryside.

Planning committee members approved the application by eight votes to one, with two abstentions.

Councillor John Dabell voted against the plans, expressing concern about further development on protected land and questioning whether the temporary marquee could eventually become a permanent structure.

However, several councillors supported the proposal, highlighting the benefits of formalising overflow parking, improving drainage and reducing congestion on surrounding roads during large gatherings.

Following the decision, church member Graeme Wilson welcomed the approval.

He said:

"This approval represents another milestone in our long-standing commitment to sustainable growth while delivering genuine value to East Grinstead and the wider Sussex community.

"We're thrilled to continue welcoming thousands of international visitors who come to Saint Hill to learn, connect, and contribute positively to the region."