Shape Horsham’s Future: Your Input Needed Before It’s Too Late

Overview of Consultation

Following an enthusiastic first phase, Horsham District Council has launched a second-stage consultation to fine-tune the creation of a dedicated Horsham Town Council. Running from mid-2025 to late September 2025, the exercise invites input from residents, businesses, and community groups on:

• The council’s official name
• Number of councillors
• Ward boundaries
• Powers and responsibilities

“Public consultation is the cornerstone of democracy—an opportunity for residents to shape decisions that touch every corner of daily life.”

Proposed Governance Structure

The proposed Horsham Town Council would operate alongside Horsham District Council (HDC) and West Sussex County Council (WSCC). Yet, with discussions of a future unitary authority—where HDC and WSCC merge—establishing a town council now ensures Horsham keeps a laser-focused voice on local matters.

Key amenities likely to fall under the town council’s remit include parks, cemeteries, community halls, and the museum—places that embody Horsham’s heritage and everyday life.

Public Engagement & Participation

Recognising varied needs, the council offers multiple ways to get involved:

• Online surveys via the council website
• Email submissions for detailed feedback
• Town-hall meetings for face-to-face dialogue
• Online forums for digital discussion

Event details can be found on the Upcoming Public Engagement Events page—an evolving diary of venues and dates.

Impact on Local Decision Making

A town council would grant Horsham more hands-on control over:

• Town-centre management
• Community facilities oversight
• Local event planning
• Heritage preservation

The result? Faster responses to neighbourhood issues and decisions grounded in Horsham’s unique character.

Council Wards & Representation

Ward boundaries aim to balance population, geography, and community identity. Residents are asked to consider whether each area will have fair representation and easy access to elected councillors.

Benefits of the New Town Council

1. Improved local governance focused solely on Horsham.
2. Enhanced community representation and advocacy.
3. Protection of Horsham’s identity—even if wider structures change.
4. More responsive service delivery tailored to neighbourhood needs.

How to Get Involved

Have your say before the deadline:

• Complete the questionnaire in the Official Public Consultation Documents.
• Email feedback to consultation@horsham.gov.uk or post letters to Parkside, Chart Way.
• Attend public meetings—dates listed on the events page above.
• Review Previous Consultation Outcomes for context.

Conclusion

Horsham is at a crossroads. The decisions made during this consultation will ripple through the town for decades. Whether you stroll through Horsham Park daily or run a business in the bustling centre, your perspective can guide the council’s formation. Speak up, share ideas, and shape the future you want to see.