Memorial Benches

East Grinstead Town Council has placed two commemorative benches for the Covid pandemic, one bench to remember all who have been lost or suffered through the lockdowns and one to thank the great efforts of so many who have and continue to help to bring us through.

The two benches were placed at the McIndoe Lawn on 24th February, unveiled by Cllr Helen Farren (Chairman of the Amenities and Tourism Committee, pictured), Cllr Farren said “These benches are our permanent memorial to all affected by the Pandemic, through the grief of losing a loved one, the loneliness of shielding and even being restricted on going outside.

We also wanted to separately say thank you to all those working so hard to keep us safe and bring us through. As the Prime Minister, this week announced the roadmap towards the end of restrictions and a return to normality it seemed appropriate for East Grinstead to unveil our memorial”.

There are two benches one is a bespoke wrought iron bench with representative images of all groups of people touched by the pandemic and with the inscription:

For many months, to sit outside was but a wish

The second is an EGTC standard bench, with the inscription:

Recognising all those who helped to overcome Covid 19 NHS, Key Workers and all volunteers

It is hoped as people sit on the benches by the Statue they will reflect on the struggle of the second world war where pioneering surgery was developed, through to the 2020/21 pandemic where again pioneering science was needed to bring us back to being able to enjoy the simple things like sitting on a bench in the sunshine. While remembering those who did not make it.

Free Digital Helpline

A new free Helpline has been launched to help people who need assistance with digital skills. We all recognise how isolating the pandemic has been for many within our society. Accessing our basic needs from ordering groceries, making doctors’ appointments and claiming benefits has all moved online. Being online can also mean chatting with your loved ones and being lifted by the smile of familiar faces. Once online you can also explore your hobbies and open up a whole new world in a safe environment.
If you know someone who needs some help to get started, give them a call!

Parking Zone Changes

Controlled Parking Zone – changes in East Grinstead from December 2020

Mid Sussex DC is contracted by West Sussex CC to manage and administer the resident visitor permits for the East Grinstead Controlled Parking Zones (CPZ). In East Grinstead there are two zones, Zone A, the central zone and zone B in proximity to the railway station.

Due to a recent surge in demand, demand for zone A permits is very close to capacity.

The total capacity in East Grinstead zone A, is 535 spaces, and approximately 516 resident and non-resident permits have been issued leaving a very limited capacity.

In East Grinstead, demand in Queens Road, De La Warr Road and Cantelupe Road exceeds supply as these areas have seen a lot of new development in recent years and are also areas with multiple household properties.

Changes from December 2020

Mid Sussex have changed the way that CPZ permits are issued in Zone A (only) from 21 December 2020:

  • Existing first and second resident permit holders will continue to be renewed.
  • No third (or further additional) permits will be issued.
  • New first permit applications will continue to be administered for residents that qualify for a permit as stated in the Management Guide. However new developments will not automatically qualify for a first permit and applications / demand will be managed on a case by case basis.
  • New second permit applications from any resident will not be guaranteed and will be managed on a road by road demand basis and may result in applications being placed on a waiting list for monthly review.
  • A cap of 12 full day permits (or equivalents) will be applied to each household for resident visitor permits.
  • Non-resident permits will only be issued to the under-utilised roads on the outlying areas of the zone, and demand will be reviewed regularly.
  • Waiting lists will now be operation and reviewed on a monthly basis.

The full details on the criteria and the application process are available on MSDC website at https://www.midsussex.gov.uk/parking-travel/parking-permits/