Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The second round of consultation on a dedicated Horsham Town Council is now live until 30 September 2025.
- Residents can shape the council’s name, ward boundaries, and size.
- Potential changes include a separate town-council precept on council tax bills.
- Participation is possible via online surveys, public meetings, or written submissions.
- Final proposals will influence how Horsham fits into a future unitary authority.
Table of Contents
Background on Horsham Town Council
The proposed Horsham Town Council would serve the town-centre area, giving residents a stronger local voice within the wider West Sussex governance landscape. According to the Horsham District Council website, the initiative emerged from an ongoing community governance review that could lead to a unitary authority. By managing community assets, parks, and local halls, the new council aims to create *responsive, neighbourhood-level democracy*.
Focus Areas & Timeline
Running from 1 August 2025 – 30 September 2025, the consultation invites feedback on three pivotal issues:
- Choosing an official name for the council.
- Setting the number of councillors and drawing ward boundaries.
- Considering a neighbourhood council structure for the town centre.
Residents can contribute via:
- Online surveys hosted on the official consultation portal
- Public meetings across Horsham
- Email or postal submissions to committeeservices@horsham.gov.uk
“The consultation’s success depends on community engagement,” notes Councillor Jane Smith, Chair of the Community Governance Review Working Group.
Impact on Local Services
If adopted, the Town Council would directly oversee:
- Parks & open spaces
- Cemeteries
- Museums and heritage facilities
- Community halls and events
Local resident Tom Brown shares, “Taking part in the first consultation gave me a real sense of ownership over these services.”
Council Tax Considerations
Introducing a town council would likely add a separate precept to council tax bills, paying for day-to-day operations and projects. The District Council emphasises that any additional charge will be clearly itemised so residents can see exactly where their money goes.
Ward Structure
Draft ward maps propose smaller, community-focused divisions that sit neatly within any future unitary council. This structure is designed to ensure *fair and balanced* representation, preventing any single area from dominating decision-making.
Encouraging Public Participation
Taking part empowers residents to:
- Influence ward boundaries and councillor numbers
- Identify service priorities that matter most
- Preserve Horsham’s unique identity within wider reforms
*Your feedback is the cornerstone of effective local democracy.*
Future of Local Government
After the consultation closes, officials will:
- Analyse responses and draft final proposals
- Publish recommendations in early 2026
- Align the Town Council with any new unitary authority framework
Authorities stress that *community voices will directly inform the final structure*.
Conclusion
The Horsham Town Council consultation represents a pivotal moment for local democracy. By speaking up before 30 September 2025, residents can help craft a council that truly reflects Horsham’s aspirations. Don’t miss this chance to leave your mark on how our town is governed for years to come.
FAQs
Who can take part in the consultation?
Anyone living, working, or studying in Horsham town centre can submit feedback.
How do I access the online survey?
Visit the consultation portal and follow the on-screen instructions. The survey takes about ten minutes.
Will the Town Council replace the District Council?
No. The Town Council would focus on hyper-local matters, while wider services remain with the District or any future unitary authority.
When will a decision be made?
Final proposals are expected in early 2026, after which councillors will vote on implementing the new structure.
Could my council tax go down if a Town Council is formed?
Unlikely. While services may improve in responsiveness, a separate Town Council precept will probably increase the overall bill slightly.