Highwood’s Future at Stake Join the Momentum or Miss Out

Key Findings from the Consultation

Horsham District Council’s plans for the Highwood community have received extensive backing from residents. A recently completed public consultation (official report) revealed widespread enthusiasm for additional public amenities. Most respondents highlighted the importance of flexible spaces suitable for local gatherings.

Barbara Childs, Director of Place at Horsham District Council, said, “We pledged in our Council Plan to listen, learn and enhance our services by increasing community involvement. My thanks go to everyone who participated in our public survey for Highwood facilities for the future. We greatly value your feedback, which will assist us in tailoring amenities to the needs of residents and the neighbourhood.”

Proposed Community Facilities

The core proposal features a multipurpose community centre that includes areas for classes, events, changing rooms, and a small car park to address accessibility. In addition, upgraded sports grounds will offer enhanced football pitches and multi-use games areas, encouraging an active lifestyle for residents of all ages.

• Classes and workshops for varied age groups
• Enhanced sports facilities supporting both formal and informal use
• Convenient on-site parking and public restrooms
• Nursery and other daily-use amenities

These facilities align with the planned local infrastructure improvements to ensure a cohesive, accessible environment for everyone in Highwood.

Community Development and Urban Planning

As part of a broader urban planning vision, the Highwood project focuses on strategic development that meets current and future community needs. This includes integrating with ongoing neighbourhood improvement efforts and prioritising inclusivity in all designs. The Council emphasizes that ensuring open recreational areas and well-connected walkways is essential for a thriving community.

Impact on Local Infrastructure

With improved community facilities, Highwood residents can anticipate better public amenities close to home. Accessible spaces will allow for more social interaction, raising the overall standard of living. The Council is also exploring ways to design each new element to benefit those with disabilities, ensuring inclusivity and convenience for all residents.

Community Feedback and Engagement

During the consultation phase, residents voiced support for enhanced fitness and creative classes, as well as a desire for more open recreational space. One resident commented, “I’m pleased about the new community centre; it will be an excellent place for our children to participate in sports and activities.” At the same time, many underscored the need for sufficient parking and well-maintained landscaping.

Council representatives have assured locals that these matters will be addressed in the final design, recognizing the importance of balancing varied community needs.

Next Steps in Decision-Making

Moving forward, Horsham District Council will review the consultation results in an upcoming Cabinet meeting. Any necessary refinements will be made before the project proceeds to detailed design development. While no definitive dates have been confirmed yet, the Council has pledged to keep residents updated through newsletters, future feedback sessions, and dedicated meetings.

Conclusion

The Highwood community facilities plan represents a significant investment in the area’s long-term well-being. By actively involving residents in the planning process, Horsham District Council demonstrates its commitment to creating vibrant, inclusive spaces that cater to diverse community needs. Enhanced sports grounds, a multipurpose community center, and improved public amenities promise to enrich daily life and foster stronger local connections.

For further enquiries or to participate in upcoming discussions, residents can visit Horsham Council Consultations. Staying informed and engaged remains key for those who hope to influence the evolving shape of Highwood’s local infrastructure.