Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Residents can influence the proposed Horsham Town Council during the current consultation phase.
- Potential responsibilities include managing parks, events, and representing local interests.
- A new council tax precept would fund operations, complemented by grants and alternative revenues.
- Clear boundaries have been drafted to protect community identity and avoid overlap with existing authorities.
- Public engagement—via an online questionnaire and meetings—is vital before the deadline.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Community Governance Review
The Horsham District Council has launched the second phase of its Community Governance Review (CGR), inviting residents to help shape the new Horsham Town Council for currently unparished areas. This phase digs deeper into the council’s potential structure, boundaries and powers—ensuring the outcome truly reflects local aspirations.
“Your feedback will lay the foundation for stronger representation, accountability, and community-led decision-making.” – Governance Committee Chair
Proposed Town Council Responsibilities
If established, the new council would focus on everyday services that directly affect residents’ quality of life while complementing district and county efforts.
- Managing parks, open spaces and allotments
- Organising community events & issuing local grants
- Representing local interests before district and county councils
- Supporting voluntary groups and micro-initiatives
- Tackling minor highways works and street cleanliness
Council Tax & Funding
A new precept—an additional element of council tax—would fund Horsham Town Council’s core activities. According to draft figures within the consultation, the average band D property could see a modest rise, although exact rates remain subject to resident feedback and final budgeting.
To ease household impact, the council plans to pursue:
- National and regional grants
- Partnership funding with community organisations
- Revenue from events and local sponsorship
Public Engagement Opportunities
The consultation remains open until 31 October 2024. Residents, businesses and local groups can participate in three easy ways:
- Complete the online questionnaire
- Attend one of the public meetings (dates on the council website)
- Review proposal documents at the Horsham Library exhibition
More than 1,600 responses were received in the first round, signalling strong community appetite for a town council.
Governance Structure
The proposed council would comprise elected councillors across several wards, supported by a governance committee to oversee transparency, finance and resident engagement. Statutory elections will ensure democratic legitimacy, while regular open meetings will keep decision-making visible.
Boundary Considerations
CGR proposals affect only unparished areas of Horsham. Draft ward maps, available in consultation leaflets and online, seek to maintain neighbourhood identity and coherence while achieving fairness in representation.
Avoiding Service Overlap
To prevent duplication with Horsham District and West Sussex County Councils, a clear matrix of responsibilities is being developed. Collaboration agreements will formalise how services such as waste, planning and highways interact, ensuring efficient governance.
How to Get Involved
Your input shapes Horsham’s future:
- Submit the questionnaire
- Speak at a public meeting—share stories, ideas and concerns
- Encourage neighbours on social media and community boards
Conclusion
The Horsham Town Council consultation is more than a formal exercise—it’s a collective opportunity to craft a responsive, accountable and community-driven layer of local government. By lending your voice, you help secure an organisation built by residents, for residents.
FAQ
What areas will the Horsham Town Council cover?
Only the currently unparished zones of Horsham—detailed ward maps are included in the consultation materials.
Will my council tax definitely rise?
A new precept is likely, but the exact figure depends on final budgets and community feedback. Grants and alternative income aim to minimise increases.
How can I submit feedback?
Complete the online questionnaire, attend public meetings, or email comments to towncouncil@horsham.gov.uk.
When will a decision be made?
Following consultation closure on 31 October 2024, final recommendations go to Horsham District Council early in 2025.
Could responsibilities change in future?
Yes. Powers can evolve through negotiation with higher authorities and ongoing resident consultation.