Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Your Say on Horsham’s New Council consultation runs from 14 August to 29 September 2025, giving residents a real voice in shaping local government.
- Topics include ward boundaries, council composition, and the future of services currently managed by Horsham District Council.
- Feedback will guide the creation of a dedicated Horsham Town Council and new neighbourhood councils.
- Potential changes to council tax and service delivery will be assessed under a proposed unitary local government model.
- Residents can respond online, by post, or in person, ensuring *everyone* can participate.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Consultation
The second phase of Horsham’s *Community Governance Review* has officially begun, and local residents are invited to weigh in on proposals to establish a brand-new Horsham Town Council. Running from 14 August to 29 September 2025, the consultation focuses on how the council should be structured, what powers it should hold, and how it will interact with neighbouring bodies.
According to the Local Government Boundary Commission for England, well-designed town councils can strengthen democracy by creating “accountable, transparent and responsive” governance. Horsham aims to follow that blueprint.
“This review is about putting Horsham’s future in Horsham’s hands,” says district leader Jane Smith. “We want every resident to feel heard.”
Why It Matters
- Fairer Ward Boundaries could ensure balanced representation across diverse neighbourhoods.
- A dedicated Horsham Town Council would focus on hyper-local issues such as parks, markets and cultural events.
- Neighbourhood councils promise an extra layer of grassroots engagement, capturing street-level concerns.
- Shifting to a unitary model may alter how services are funded, potentially impacting household council tax bills.
In short, the consultation is a chance to influence *who decides what* in Horsham for decades to come.
How to Participate
Taking part is simple and only takes a few minutes:
- Online: Complete the secure survey at horsham.gov.uk/consultations.
- By Post: Send written comments to “Horsham Consultation Team, Park House, North Street, RH12 1RL”.
- In Person: Drop-in sessions will be held every Thursday at the Swan Walk Community Hub, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Need assistance? Call 01403 000 000 or email consult@horsham.gov.uk for support in alternative formats.
What Happens Next
After 29 September, officers will analyse submissions and draft recommendations. A summary timeline:
- October 2025 – Public meetings to discuss draft proposals.
- December 2025 – Final structure approved by the district’s shadow authority.
- May 2026 – First elections to the new Horsham Town Council.
Conclusion
Whether you are a long-time resident or a new arrival, *this is your chance to help design Horsham’s democratic future*. By submitting your views, you’ll influence council powers, ward boundaries and the everyday services that make Horsham a great place to live.
Don’t let others decide for you—have your say before 29 September 2025.
FAQs
What exactly is a Community Governance Review?
A Community Governance Review examines current local government arrangements and recommends improvements. In Horsham’s case, it focuses on creating a new town council and redrawing ward boundaries.
Will my council tax go up?
Potentially. If certain services transfer to the town council, a new precept could be added. The consultation asks residents which services they value most to guide any financial changes.
How many councillors will the new Town Council have?
Early proposals suggest between 16 and 20 voluntary councillors, but final numbers depend on feedback about ward size and workload.
Can businesses and community groups respond?
Absolutely. The survey is open to residents, businesses, charities, schools and any organisation with a local interest.
Where can I read the full consultation document?
Download the detailed proposals at horsham.gov.uk/consultations/horsham-town-council or pick up a printed copy at the library.