Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Second public consultation on Horsham Town Council runs from 14 August to 29 September 2025.
- Residents can influence ward boundaries and an expanded set of council powers.
- Proposals align with the Local Plan and focus on sustainable growth.
- Stakeholders voice both enthusiasm for better representation and concerns over role overlap.
- Your feedback will help shape the final decision later in 2025.
Table of contents
Background of Horsham Town Council
Horsham is on the cusp of introducing a new tier of local governance aimed at giving residents greater influence over day-to-day decisions. Building on an initial consultation earlier this year, the latest phase invites fresh perspectives on how the council should be structured and what responsibilities it should inherit from the district level.
- Dedicated representation for the town
- Potential transfer of specific powers from Horsham District Council
- Rooted in findings from the first consultation round
“This step will enhance local democracy and improve community representation.” – Governance Committee report
Consultation Details
Running from 14 August to 29 September 2025, the consultation zeroes in on two pivotal areas:
- Ward Boundaries: Proposed adjustments aim for fair, population-balanced representation across Horsham.
- Council Powers: Options to manage parks, markets, and certain regulatory functions now overseen by the district authority.
These moves support the town’s commitment to sustainable development goals embedded in the Local Plan.
Community Engagement
Horsham’s leaders stress that community voices are the driving force behind the new council’s legitimacy. Residents can share opinions by completing the online survey, attending drop-in sessions, or emailing their comments.
“Community engagement is strongly encouraged to ensure the council reflects residents’ needs.” – Go Horsham website
- Survey live for 6 weeks
- Inclusive channels for feedback – online, postal, in-person
- Input sought on active travel, green spaces, and service delivery
Impact on Future Development
A town council could mean more local control over planning decisions, quicker responses to neighbourhood concerns, and targeted investment in amenities. Yet integration challenges remain:
- Co-ordinating new ward structures with existing district systems
- Avoiding duplication of services and costs
- Ensuring consistent long-term funding
Stakeholder Feedback
Early feedback paints a mixed yet constructive picture:
Positive themes
- Sharper focus on town-specific priorities
- Improved accountability to residents
Key concerns
- Overlap with district council responsibilities
- Need for clear delineation of powers and budgets
Participation Guidelines
Have your say in four easy steps:
- Open the online survey between 14 August and 29 September 2025.
- Comment on proposed ward boundaries and council powers.
- Share priorities for the Local Plan and sustainable growth.
- Submit additional feedback via email or at local events – no extensive paperwork required.
Timeline & Next Steps
- 14 Aug – 29 Sep 2025: Public consultation window
- Oct – Nov 2025: Analysis of community feedback
- Late 2025: Final decision on council establishment
- 2026 (provisional): Elections and first council meetings
Conclusion
The second consultation round is a watershed moment for Horsham’s local democracy. By lending your voice, you ensure that any new council mirrors the town’s aspirations, aligns with the Local Plan, and delivers services that matter most to you. Now is the time to shape Horsham’s future.
FAQs
What areas will the new Horsham Town Council oversee?
If approved, the council may manage parks, community venues, local markets, and minor planning decisions, subject to agreement with Horsham District Council.
How do I access the consultation survey?
Visit the official online survey page, available from 14 August 2025.
Will creating a town council increase my council tax?
A precept could be introduced, but exact figures will be published after the consultation when responsibilities and budgets are finalised.
Can businesses take part in the consultation?
Yes, local businesses, community groups, and organisations are invited to submit views alongside residents.
When will a final decision be announced?
Council leaders aim to reach a decision by the end of 2025 following analysis of all feedback.