Thank you to everyone who supported the development of the East Grinstead Town Centre Improvement Plan (the Plan). We are pleased to announce the Plan is now available to view.

The Plan identifies potential opportunities for future improvements to the town centre, helping to make it a better place to live, work and visit. The Plan sets out investment opportunities and prioritises potential projects which, with funding, can become deliverable schemes.

Background

It is clear that high streets are changing as retail patterns change, and town centres need to evolve and adapt. Recognising this, East Grinstead Town Council (EGTC), East Grinstead Business Association (EGBA) and Mid Sussex District Council (MSDC), engaged town centre regeneration specialists to identify potential improvements for East Grinstead. 

Aims and Objectives

The Plan provides a clear and deliverable framework to guide investment, enhance the quality of place, and ensure East Grinstead thrives in the long term. The Plan has been developed for everyone with an interest in the town, including residents, businesses, landowners, community organisations, schools, transport operators and visitors, to contribute to so that effort and investment can be aligned. It ensures the town is well positioned by identifying clear, well-considered proposals as priorities and new funding sources become available.

The Plan identifies clear ambitions and interventions in advance, enabling East Grinstead to respond proactively to future funding opportunities.

A Shared Vision

To create a town centre that is vibrant, inclusive, and welcoming – where heritage is celebrated, public spaces invite activity and enjoyment, streets prioritise people over traffic, and the needs of both residents and visitors are supported by a thriving mix of uses and experiences.

Engagement

We engaged with as many people as possible in developing the Plan – whether they live here, or work in the town, and we are grateful to everyone who attended a drop-in session or provided feedback online. This local insight and information has provided valuable input to the development of the Plan. 

What’s next?

As funding opportunities arise EGTC, MSDC and EGBA will continue to work together, with West Sussex County Council (WSCC), to explore town centre improvement projects and we will continue to engage with all key stakeholders including further public consultation when required.

Work already underway includes:

  • Working with WSCC to try to secure the projects in the Plan in their future projects pipeline, and to ensure ongoing projects are aligned. 
  • Exploring a Business Improvement District (BID) for East Grinstead; Find out more (feasibility study information sheet).
  • EGTC have submitted an expression of interest to become the first UK Town of Culture 2028.  A decision regarding the shortlist of successful applications is due in Spring 2026.

Keen to Get Involved?

We understand there are many views on ‘what good looks like’ and we are keen for everyone to comment on future projects. If you are interested to know more and would like to join the mailing list for future engagement events, drop us an email at towncouncil@eastgrinstead.gov.uk

Thank you again to everyone who has contributed to this important initiative for the future of our town.

Last updated: 18 May 2026