Bad news for Scientology members with a penchant for pageantry – their annual ball is in danger of being canceled. It’s a pretty big deal considering the event is the highlight of the Church’s calendar and is attended by poster boy Tom Cruise. The issue stems from a rather unglamorous battle with the local council.
Could the Scientology Patron’s Ball be canceled?
The Patron’s Ball is held every year at the Church’s European headquarters in East Grinstead, Sussex, UK. It’s a night of glitz and glam, with Tom Cruise making a star appearance for the last few years.
But this year, there may be trouble brewing. The ball is due to be held this weekend, but a dramatic planning battle with the local council may see it called off, reports Radar Online.
Apparently, the Church has constructed a 70,000-square-foot structure at the West Sussex site without planning permission. It was penalized last year for doing the same thing, and was told to get permission this time around.
Alas, it did not. In August, it began building the large structure to hold around 10,000 guests, according to RO. While it has recently submitted an application to constrict a car park and WC facilities, there’s no time for it to be approved, as reports the publication.
The event has come under fire from locals, including former Scientologist Alexander Barnes-Ross. He claims it causes major traffic disruption, with “mile-long” tailbacks in the surrounding area. Alexander alleges this chaos is partly due to actor Tom “flying in on his helicopter”.
The Church has replied to the claims in what some may say is true Scientology style. A spokesperson said of its former member: “He has since launched on an anti-religious vendetta in which he has threatened the Church and its members.”
The reports come soon after claims that Lisa Marie Presley feared Scientology members were after her once she left the Church.
TELL US – WILL THE GRAND BALL GO AHEAD THIS WEEKEND WITHOUT PERMISSION?
