
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Takeaways
- Second round of Local Plan consultation gives residents a voice in Horsham’s future.
- Focus areas include affordable housing, infrastructure, green spaces, and economic growth.
- Multiple participation channels – from online surveys to town-hall meetings – aim for inclusive engagement.
- Key deadlines: 8-week consultation in May 2026 and 6-week draft plan feedback in June/July 2027.
- Civic participation today will shape Horsham up to 2040.
Table of Contents
Background of Horsham Town Council
Horsham Town Council operates within Horsham District Council and is the front-line representative body for local residents. Its 2023-2040 strategic plan guides decisions on housing, infrastructure, environment, and economic growth, aiming to build a sustainable, prosperous community for current and future generations.
“Planning shouldn’t happen to a town – it should happen with a town.” – Councillor Jane Matthews, Planning Committee Chair
Public Consultation Process
The second round of the Local Plan consultation adopts a multi-channel approach designed to maximise participation:
- Interactive online surveys
- Open town-hall meetings
- Written feedback via email or post
Key dates to mark:
- May 2026 – 8-week vision & strategy consultation
- June/July 2027 – 6-week draft plan consultation
Residents can contribute by attending meetings, completing surveys, or contacting council representatives directly, ensuring every voice is counted.
Key Components of the Local Plan
Stretching to 2040, the plan outlines goals across four pillars:
- Housing – balanced supply with clear affordability targets
- Infrastructure – transport upgrades & digital connectivity
- Green spaces – protection & expansion of parks and corridors
- Economic development – nurturing local businesses & jobs
Development proposals will be assessed against environmental goals, transport improvements, and sustainability measures, creating a roadmap that balances growth with community needs.
Affordable Housing Spotlight
Affordable housing is a cornerstone of the consultation. Draft policies mandate set percentages of affordable homes in new developments, including the Henfield neighbourhood development, reserving 82 of 235 properties for local families.
- Strengthening community diversity
- Supporting key workers
- Easing pressure on local services
The council is actively seeking resident feedback on how these measures could shape social mix and quality of life.
Community Engagement & Civic Participation
Horsham has a rich history of resident-led initiatives influencing play space provision, school investments, and active travel schemes. The current consultation emphasises engaging young people and under-represented groups to ensure the plan mirrors the aspirations of all residents.
How to Participate
Getting involved is straightforward:
- Review documents on the council website or at council offices
- Attend town-hall meetings and pop-up events
- Submit feedback via surveys, email, or paper forms
- Use council helplines for support and clarifications
- Meet key deadlines – May 2026 & June/July 2027
Your input today will resonate for decades.
Conclusion
The Horsham Town Council consultation marks a pivotal moment. By engaging with the process, residents can help craft policies that secure sustainable growth, protect green spaces, and deliver affordable housing. A future Horsham isn’t just a place we live; it’s a community we shape together.
FAQs
When does the consultation close?
The current phase ends after an 8-week period starting May 2026. A separate 6-week window will follow in June/July 2027 for the draft plan.
How can I submit feedback if I can’t attend meetings?
Complete the online survey, email the planning team, or post written comments to the council offices – all channels hold equal weight.
Will my comments really influence the final plan?
Yes. All submissions are reviewed and summarised in a statement of community involvement, which must be considered before the plan is adopted.
Where can I read previous consultation results?
Visit the evidence-base archive on the council website for past reports and feedback summaries.
Who do I contact for accessibility support?
Call the council’s community liaison team on 01403 215100, and they’ll arrange documents in alternative formats or schedule assistance at events.
