Scientology Requests Protest Ban in East Grinstead

The Church of Scientology has requested that Mid Sussex District Council impose a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to prevent protests outside its headquarters in East Grinstead. This request aims to stop disturbances similar to those caused by ex-Scientologists last November, which the Church claims endanger safety on Saint Hill Road. Opponents, represented by Alexander Barnes-Ross, argue that such an order would infringe on their freedom of speech and is intended to silence critics. The council is currently considering the request but has not yet made a decision, with no order expected in place before the upcoming International Association of Scientology event on October 25. The council will collect evidence during the event to inform its decision on the PSPO, balancing the rights of protesters and the Church. The Church was recognized as a religion in the UK in 2013 and has a complex relationship with public criticism.