Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The second round of public consultation on Horsham’s new town council is now live.
- Residents can influence representation, funding and the official council name.
- Potential for a new council tax precept sparks debate on affordability.
- Multiple feedback channels – from online surveys to town-hall meetings – aim to capture every voice.
- Final recommendations will shape Horsham’s governance for the next decade.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Consultation
Horsham District Council has launched the second and decisive phase of its community governance review. The exercise evaluates how effectively local interests are represented and whether a new town council would deliver more responsive services. Various engagement tools — surveys, pop-up stalls and written submissions — are being deployed to reach as many people as possible.
“This consultation is Horsham’s chance to shape its own future, rather than having it shaped for us,” said review chair Cllr. Jane Mercer.
Proposed Changes
Key proposals under discussion include:
- Adjusting the number of councillors and the way wards are mapped.
- Setting clear rules for committee structures and public participation sessions.
- Choosing an official name that reflects Horsham’s heritage & ambitions.
Financial Implications
Introducing a town council would almost certainly mean a new precept added to council tax bills. Early modelling suggests:
- Typical Band D properties could see rises of between £30 and £55 per year.
- Grant funding and asset transfers may offset part of the cost.
- Administrative expenditure will scale with the final size of the council.
Officials insist the final figure will aim for maximum value for money while safeguarding essential services.
How to Participate
Every resident, business owner and community group can contribute in one of three ways:
- Complete the Horsham Town Council consultation survey online.
- Attend drop-in sessions at the Capitol Theatre and Swan Walk.
- Send detailed written submissions to the Democratic Services team.
Decision Making & Services
Feedback will be collated into a final report that could lead to:
- Re-prioritised town-centre maintenance and environmental projects.
- Enhanced youth services responding to rising demand.
- Stronger partnerships with parish councils on shared services.
Governance Committee
A cross-party committee is steering the consultation, analysing data and recommending ward boundaries that ensure fair representation for all neighbourhoods. The committee pledges to publish raw consultation statistics for transparency.
Political Balance
Although party politics naturally enters local government, proposals include:
- Rotating the mayoralty between parties to keep debate constructive.
- Mandatory public interest training for all new councillors.
- Encouraging independent candidates to widen voter choice.
Conclusion
The consultation offers Horsham residents a rare opportunity to define how their town is run. Active participation will ensure the new council reflects local priorities, balances costs and delivers the services residents value most. Your voice can help shape Horsham for generations to come.
FAQs
Who is eligible to respond to the consultation?
Anyone who lives, works or owns property in Horsham, plus registered community groups and businesses, can give feedback.
When does the consultation close?
Submissions are open until 31 July 2024. A summary report will be published in early autumn.
Will my council tax definitely increase?
Not necessarily. The precept level depends on the final scope of services the new council chooses to deliver.
How will my feedback be used?
All responses are anonymised, analysed and incorporated into the committee’s final recommendations to Horsham District Council.
Where can I access the survey?
You can complete the survey online via the official consultation portal or request a paper copy from the council offices.