Renovated barn in East Grinstead set to reopen: new space for community groups and homeworkers in East Sussex

The council said the building will open on Monday, February 5, after months of renovation work to insulate it and fit it out.

The council said it purchased the old St Barnabas church on Dunnings Road in July last year with the goal of opening it to the community.

Councillor John Belsey, chair of the Amenities and Tourism Committee, said: “News that the church intended to sell came to the council via a resident and it became clear how much having a community building in Sunnyside means to those living in this part of town. The Town Council moved fast to secure the building at a good price to ensure that it stays in public use and worked hard to get the building ready for reopening. It’s been an exciting project to improve the building for such a potential range of different activities for residents and to strengthen our community.”

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The council said the original building on the site was known as ‘The Barn’ before it was purchased and rebuilt by the diocese of Chichester. They gave it the name St Barnabas while still keeping its link with its former name. East Grinstead Town Council said they have renamed the building again to reflect its history and its current public ownership status. The council asked for name suggestions and picked Sunnyside Barn because it is in the area known as ‘Sunnyside’.

People can make bookings and enquiries with the community and tourism team at East Grinstead Library or by email to [email protected]. Community group bookings are also available at www.eastgrinstead.gov.uk.

There will be a drop-in morning on Friday, February 2, to formally open Sunnyside Barn from 9.30am to 10.30am.

A council spokesperson added: “It is hoped the space will also be used for homeworkers to have a pop-up office to reduce isolation, be a home for community groups, a venue for children’s birthday parties and other gatherings. Groups who are already looking to use the building include: Sea Cadets, mums and babies yoga, cardiac rehab group, adult yoga and art classes.”