Revised plans for the Bishopric area of Horsham place a strong emphasis on better access between the John Lewis/Waitrose area and the town centre, alongside the retention of the much‑loved mature trees and a waterfall feature.
At the Horsham District Council Cabinet meeting on 25 March, Cabinet Member for Planning & Infrastructure Cllr Ruth Fletcher outlined the updated proposals, which reflect extensive public feedback.
Key priorities are:
* Retaining the mature trees in the western side of the Bishopric.
* Including a waterfall feature at the Albion Way end.
* Opening up the space to provide improved access for all users, to better connect the John Lewis/Waitrose shopping areas to the town centre shopping areas.
* Creating more flexible space for accessing businesses, outdoor dining and market trading.
* Further design work focusing on retaining the whole area as a priority for pedestrians where cyclists are welcome, with no change to the existing shared-use.
Overall, the improvements are set to create a better environment with improved connectivity for all users including those who are mobility impaired, deliver improvements to street furniture and way finding signage, improve facilities for street markets and outdoor events and provide new urban green space with new planting schemes.
Commenting on the new designs, Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure Cllr Ruth Fletcher said:
“Many thanks to the many of you who shared your views on our previous proposals for these town centre improvements.
“Your input has been instrumental in helping us to revise our design ideas.
“The Council has long recognised the challenges of this particular area. We have listened to your ongoing feedback and I am now excited about the proposed improvements which will greatly promote better access, stronger connectivity and a thriving economy for Horsham town centre.”
The project builds on years of public engagement, beginning with the Town Centre Statement which was adopted in 2017, followed by the Public Realm Strategy in 2021. Funding for detailed design and implementation was approved in 2023.