Improvements to the Bishopric area are set to move a step closer on 9 September when Members of the Horsham District Council's Communities and Place Policy Scrutiny Committee meet to review the latest designs and costs.
The scheme will improve connections between the John Lewis and Waitrose area and Horsham town centre while retaining the area's much-loved mature trees and waterfall feature.
Key elements of the proposals, which have been shaped by extensive feedback from the public, include:
- Easier access to shops and businesses on the northern side of the Bishopric
- Creating more flexible space for businesses for outdoor dining, market trading and events
- Retaining the mature trees on the western side of the Bishopric
- Retaining the waterfall feature at the Albion Way end
- Maintaining the area as a pedestrian-priority space where cyclists are welcome.
The scheme will replace damaged paving and planters, upgrade street furniture and wayfinding and include new planting to increase urban green space.
Once reviewed by the Scrutiny Committee, the proposal will then go forward for Cabinet approval.
Subject to approval of the final technical designs, construction is expected to begin in January 2027 and be completed by April 2028.
Commenting on the proposals, Horsham District Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Infrastructure Cllr Ruth Fletcher said: "Creating attractive, accessible and vibrant town centre spaces is an important part of our commitment to supporting thriving communities and a strong local economy.
This area is a key gateway into Horsham town centre and these improvements will make it easier for people to move between shopping areas, spend time in the town and enjoy everything it has to offer.
“We have listened carefully to residents, businesses and other stakeholders throughout the development of these plans. The proposals retain valued features such as the mature trees and waterfall while delivering a more welcoming, flexible and connected space for everyone."
The project builds on years of public engagement, beginning with the Horsham Town Centre Vision adopted in 2017 and followed by the Public Realm Strategy in 2021. Funding for the detailed design and delivery of the scheme was approved in 2023.