Time is Ticking Horsham Residents Crucial Say in Towns Future

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Second public consultation launches 1 August 2025 and runs until 30 September 2025.
• First consultation showed 75.5% of residents support establishing a Horsham Town Council.
• Phase two refines ward boundaries, council size, and decision-making powers.
• Possible shift to a unitary authority could streamline services and costs.
• Residents can respond online, by post, or at public meetings — your voice shapes Horsham’s future.

Background

Horsham Town Council is a proposed local authority designed to bring decision-making closer to the town centre’s 50,000+ residents. Currently, Horsham District Council (HDC) governs the area, but three in four residents who responded to 2024’s initial survey favoured a dedicated town council to champion local priorities.

“A town council would give Horsham its own voice and ensure community projects get the attention they deserve,” said an HDC spokesperson.

Details of the Second Consultation

Running from 1 August – 30 September 2025, this stage invites residents to comment on:

• The official name of the council (e.g. Horsham Town Council, Horsham Parish Council).
• Number of councillors and election cycle.
• Proposed ward boundaries to ensure fair representation.

Feedback will guide the final recommendations submitted to HDC early in 2026.

Proposed Council Structures & Functions

Three structural models are on the table, each varying in council size (12, 16 or 20 councillors) and committee arrangements. All models prioritise:

• Transparent budgeting for parks, markets, and community grants.
• Speedier responses to town-centre planning queries.
• Enhanced public engagement via neighbourhood forums and youth panels.

Residents will be asked whether committees should be thematic (e.g. Environment, Culture) or ward-based.

Ward Boundaries & Community Representation

Redrawing ward maps is essential for equal voter representation. Options include:

• Maintaining existing district wards but adding town-centre sub-divisions.
• Creating six compact wards aligned with neighbourhood identities such as West Street, Riverside, and Depot Road.

The consultation explores how *ward shape* affects councillor workloads, voter turnout, and funding allocation for civic facilities.

Local Government Reorganisation

Alongside the town council proposal, West Sussex leaders are studying a unitary authority that could merge HDC with county functions. Under this system:

• The new town council would manage hyper-local assets — allotments, markets, small parks.
• A single county-wide body would oversee highways, education, and strategic planning.

Case studies from Dorset and Buckinghamshire suggest streamlined decision-making and cost savings of up to £18 million per year.

Impact on Town Centre Management

Localised governance is expected to accelerate improvements in street cleaning, event licensing, and Christmas lighting. Business owners say a town-focused council could cut red tape for pop-up markets and extend evening patrols to enhance safety.

“Faster decisions mean a livelier high street and more footfall,” noted Sue Harper, Chair of Horsham Traders Association.

Community Engagement & Feedback

Consultation materials emphasise engaging *younger residents* and *hard-to-reach groups*. Interactive stalls will pop up at the Saturday market, and local schools will host “council design” workshops.

The earlier 75.5% approval rating shows wide enthusiasm, yet organisers stress the need for *fresh voices* to refine the proposal.

How to Participate

1. Visit the Horsham Community Governance Review page for full documents.
2. Complete the online survey or send a written submission to Parkside offices.
3. Join public meetings on 15 August 2025 (Town Hall, 6 pm) or 5 September 2025 (Community Centre, 2 pm).
4. Deadline: 30 September 2025.

Questions? Email towncouncilconsultation@horsham.gov.uk or call 01403 215100.

Conclusion

The second consultation is Horsham’s chance to *lock in* the details of its own council and influence potential county-wide reform. By contributing now, residents ensure local democracy mirrors community priorities for years to come.

FAQs

Why is a second consultation necessary?

Phase one confirmed demand; phase two fine-tunes boundaries, council size, and powers based on detailed community input.

Will my council tax rise if a town council is created?

A modest precept could be added (estimated £1.20 per week for Band D households), but any increase must be justified by improved services.

How will ward boundaries affect me?

Boundaries determine which councillor represents you and how resources are allocated; balanced wards aim for equal voter influence.

Could the unitary authority plan delay the town council?

Officials say both processes can run in parallel. A town council could launch in 2026 even if wider reorganisation takes longer.

Where can I read the full consultation document?

All papers are available on the Horsham District Council website or in hard copy at Parkside reception.