75.5% Back New Horsham Council Act Now Before Your Voice Is Lost

Table of Contents

Introduction

“Local government works best when local people shape it.” Riding on this belief, the second phase of Horsham’s journey toward a Town Council officially begins this August. Building on overwhelming early support, residents are invited to look beyond the headlines and into the details that will define how Horsham is run for decades to come.

Below, we unpack everything up for discussion – from ward maps to museum budgets – and explain how you can make your voice count.

Purpose of the Consultation

The District Council isn’t simply asking yes or no this time. Instead, it wants practical suggestions that will refine the emerging blueprint for Horsham Town Council. Residents are invited to comment on:

• Which services should be devolved to the new authority.
• How many councillors should represent each neighbourhood.
• Whether existing parish boundaries need to be redrawn.
• Ways to guarantee accountability and transparency from day one.

Governance Structure Proposals

Three draft models are on the table, ranging from a lean 12-member chamber to a larger council mirroring district ward lines. Each model outlines:

• Number of seats per proposed ward.
• Committee system versus leader-and-cabinet approach.
• How the Town Council would dovetail with West Sussex County Council services.
• Contingency plans should a future unitary authority be approved.

A comparative chart – available on the online portal – sets out the pros and cons of each option so residents can cast an informed opinion.

Public Consultation Process

Whether you prefer a quick online survey, a chat over coffee at The Capitol foyer, or sending a handwritten letter, there is a channel for you. Key dates include:

• Launch: 1 August 2025.
• Community roadshows at the Park Barn centre every Thursday in August.
• Final submissions deadline: 30 September 2025.
• Feedback report due: early November 2025.

Council officers will be on hand to provide step-by-step guidance so every resident – regardless of age or digital ability – can participate.

Council Responsibilities & Accountability

If approved, the Town Council would take charge of:

• Parks, play areas and open spaces.
• The War Memorial and commemorative events.
• Horsham Museum & Art Gallery.
• Allotments, cemeteries and community halls.

To keep the body in check, draft rules propose:

• Monthly public meetings with live-streaming.
• Annual performance reports delivered to every household.
• A citizen’s panel empowered to call-in decisions for review.

Local Government Reorganisation

West Sussex is exploring a shift toward a single unitary model. Should that happen, Horsham Town Council would act as the first rung of governance, ensuring neighbourhood issues don’t vanish in a county-wide structure. Supporters say it offers a “voice amid centralisation”, while critics warn of duplicated layers. The consultation documents lay out both viewpoints in detail.

Funding & Costs

Early forecasts suggest an average precept rise of £1.10 per week for a Band D property. The budget covers staff, asset maintenance and a contingency fund for unforeseen projects. Residents can view a line-by-line breakdown and propose savings or alternative revenue streams, such as sponsorship of flower displays or commercial hire of the museum’s gallery space.

Ward Divisions & Boundary Issues

Getting the map right is crucial. Draft boundaries aim for population parity but also respect historic identities like Denne, Trafalgar and Springfield. The council is seeking feedback on:

• Keeping neighbourhood centres intact.
• Avoiding split streets that confuse bin collections.
• Future-proofing growth areas such as North Horsham.

Community Engagement & Representation

The consultation team is partnering with schools, faith groups and local businesses to reach every corner of the community. Nomination workshops will run later in the year to help first-time candidates – particularly young adults – step forward.

Public Information

Full documents, interactive maps and meeting schedules are housed on the District Council’s website, local libraries and via pop-up stalls in Swan Walk. Residents can also request large-print copies or translations by calling the council’s contact centre.

Next Steps

After submissions close, an independent panel will analyse responses and publish recommendations in November. Should the Town Council be green-lit, shadow elections could take place in May 2026, with the first full council meeting pencilled in for the summer.

Conclusion

The upcoming months offer a rare chance to design a council from scratch. Whether you champion greener parks, better youth services or leaner taxes, your ideas can find a home in the final blueprint. So, read the proposals, join a roadshow and let Horsham hear your voice.