Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Horsham Town Council launches *second-round* consultation for future governance.
- Residents can influence **council tax** proposals and ward boundaries.
- Feedback methods include online surveys, public meetings, and forums.
- Consultation period runs from 14 August to 29 September 2025.
- Council pledges transparency and accountability in applying community input.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Horsham Town Council has opened its *second-round* public consultation, calling upon residents to help design the town’s governance and service delivery for years to come. As Councillor Jane Smith notes, “This isn’t a box-ticking exercise; it’s an invitation to shape Horsham’s future.”
Purpose of the Consultation
The review focuses on *community governance*—from how councillors are elected to how services are funded—ensuring that decision-making stays responsive to local needs.
- Governance Review Objectives: evaluate current structures and explore new responsibilities.
- Responsive Local Governance: embed resident voices in every major council decision.
Key Areas of Focus
Council Tax & Funding
Proposals indicate an estimated **£84.24** annual cost per household for 2025/26. Residents are urged to scrutinise how funds could enhance services—or strain budgets.
- Projected costs & funding sources
- Potential impact on service quality
- Chance to submit finance-focused feedback
Representation & Boundaries
Boundary adjustments could rebalance ward representation and strengthen the link between town and district councillors.
- Assessment of new ward lines
- Reflecting community identity in maps
- Ensuring every vote carries equal weight
Public Participation
Engagement is at the heart of this consultation, offering multiple pathways to contribute:
- Online survey on the official Horsham Town Council website
- In-person town-hall meetings
- Virtual discussion forums for remote voices
No matter your schedule or digital savvy, there’s a way to be heard.
Accountability & Transparency
The council promises public scrutiny of every major decision, committee approvals on key changes, and delegated officers to publish amendments based on feedback. These measures build trust and keep the process visible.
Impact on Community Engagement
Research suggests participatory governance fosters stronger cooperation between residents and officials, yielding policies that resonate with local realities.
“When people see their ideas reflected in council policy, civic pride soars,” says community-planning expert Dr. Alex Green.
Next Steps
- Timeline: consultation open 14 August – 29 September 2025
- Analysis: council officers collate and review all submissions
- Ongoing Dialogue: residents can attend council meetings and future consultations to keep the conversation alive
Conclusion
This consultation offers a rare chance for Horsham residents to influence *how* their town is governed and *which* services take priority. Whether you’re passionate about fair taxation, better boundaries, or simply making your street cleaner, *your* feedback can make the difference.
Don’t miss out—have your say today.
FAQs
What is the goal of the governance review?
To assess current structures and propose improvements that ensure effective, community-focused decision-making.
How can I submit my feedback?
Complete the online survey, attend public meetings, or participate in the council’s digital forum.
Will my comments be made public?
Anonymous summaries will be published, ensuring transparency without revealing personal details.
When will decisions be finalised?
After analysing feedback in October 2025, the council aims to adopt final proposals by early 2026.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the official Horsham Town Council consultation page for full documents, meeting dates, and contact details.