Horsham’s 2040 Vision at Risk Without Your Voice in Planning

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:

1. Housing – balanced supply with clear affordability targets
2. Infrastructure – transport upgrades & digital connectivity
3. Green spaces – protection & expansion of parks and corridors
4. 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:

1. Review documents on the council website or at council offices
2. Attend town-hall meetings and pop-up events
3. Submit feedback via surveys, email, or paper forms
4. Use council helplines for support and clarifications
5. 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.