Godstone business owners call for more support ahead of sinkhole re-opening
After being closed for over a year, Godstone High Street is set to open within the next few weeks
Godstone business owners are urging Tandridge District Council to provide additional relief measures as the village's main road, closed due to a sinkhole, is about to reopen.
The major sinkhole, which appeared on 17th February 2025, caused significant disruption, including the evacuation of several homes on Godstone High Street.
The repairs, initially hoped to be finished by December 2025, were delayed, with completion now expected this summer.
Business owners in Godstone have faced challenging times, with the road closures impacting traffic and customer flow significantly.
Pub landlord Mark Cullinan expressed frustration over the pace of the repair works, questioning if similar delays would occur in more bustling locations like Peckham.
Cullinan highlighted the negative impact on businesses, lamenting the time taken for repairs.
Tandridge District Council initially offered council tax and business rate relief for affected parties.
Shane Fry, who owns a garage on Godstone High Street, shared that his business was severely impacted, though they've managed to adapt over time.
Shane, alongside other business owners, advocates for a gradual return to normal business rates once the road reopens to help struggling businesses adjust.
East Surrey MP Claire Coutinho supports calls for a phased approach to business rates, highlighting the challenges faced by local businesses and the need for continued support as normal operations resume.
A spokesperson for Tandridge District Council acknowledged the disruption and impact on businesses.
They emphasised the council's efforts, including hardship relief, shop improvement grants, and complimentary membership to Surrey Chambers of Commerce.
“With the council retaining only 9% of business rates, we have provided maximum support from the portion retained,” they said.