Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The second consultation phase invites *all* Horsham stakeholders to help shape a brand-new town council.
- Multiple participation methods—online surveys, written submissions, and in-person meetings—ensure every voice can be heard.
- Key topics include governance structure, infrastructure upgrades, and transparent decision-making.
- Resident feedback from the first round already sparked footpath upgrades and affordable-housing priorities.
- Active engagement now will influence Horsham’s future for decades.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Proposed Horsham Town Council
Horsham District Council’s move to establish a dedicated town council represents a *significant shift* in local governance. The plan aims to bring decision-making closer to residents, increase accountability, and create a single, clear voice for Horsham. As one councillor stated, “A town council gives Horsham the agility to respond swiftly to local priorities.”
What’s New in the Second Consultation Round?
- Deeper dive into governance models, including ward boundaries and committee structures.
- Targeted questions on strategic goals—transparency, sustainability, and service delivery.
- Feedback sought on funding priorities for infrastructure, green spaces, and community programs.
Residents can respond through in-person town-hall meetings, an online survey, or by submitting written comments. Full details and submission portals are hosted on the official Horsham District Council website.
Community Engagement Initiatives
To ensure inclusive participation, the council has launched a series of initiatives:
- Pop-up listening posts in the town centre for on-the-spot feedback.
- Partnerships with youth clubs and senior associations to capture *diverse* perspectives.
- Digital Q&A sessions featuring council leaders answering real-time questions.
“Horsham’s strength lies in its community spirit—this consultation is our chance to amplify that spirit in local government.” —Local resident
Infrastructure & Development Focus
Key proposals under review include safer active-travel routes, road repairs, and expanded affordable housing. These plans aim to balance immediate needs with long-term environmental goals. Studies show that well-designed cycling corridors can reduce town-centre traffic by up to *15 %*, supporting both sustainability and economic growth.
Next Steps & How to Get Involved
Consultation milestones include summary-report publication, draft-plan release, and targeted engagement sessions, culminating in final adoption later in 2025. Residents are encouraged to:
- Complete the online survey before the closing date.
- Attend local meetings to voice priorities in person.
- Consider standing for town-council positions or joining advisory groups.
As the consultation progresses, every submission—no matter how brief—will be reviewed. *Your input matters.*
FAQ
What is the purpose of creating a Horsham Town Council?
The goal is to provide Horsham with a dedicated governing body that can make decisions tailored to the town’s unique needs, enhancing transparency and accountability.
How can I participate in the consultation?
You can submit views through the online survey, attend public meetings, or send written feedback via the council’s contact channels listed on the Horsham District Council website.
Will my feedback really make a difference?
Yes. Changes such as recent footpath upgrades were implemented directly due to resident comments in the first consultation phase.
When will the new town council be operational?
If approved, the council is expected to be in place shortly after final plan adoption, projected for late 2025.