As we move into the height of summer, this edition reflects a season full of activity, opportunity and continued progress across the District. With longer days and warm evenings, we look forward to bringing communities together through a vibrant programme of local events.
Accessibility is a key thread that runs throughout this edition, from our work with the Snowball app to the latest progress with refurbishments at The Capitol. We highlight the impact of our work with local voluntary organisations and we include important guidance for both renters and landlords as the new Renters’ Rights Act comes into effect. You’ll find the latest Local Plan update, as well as a warm welcome to our new Chair, Councillor Joanne Knowles.
We hope this issue keeps you informed and connected to our current work supporting our wonderful communities, and don’t miss the latest opportunities to have your say on live and upcoming consultations.
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July 2026 articles
A summer welcome
As we move into the height of summer, this edition reflects a season full of activity, opportunity and continued progress across the District.
Get ready for a scorching summer
Our Friday Lates events have made a welcome return throughout July and August from 6pm to 8pm at the Horsham Carfax Bandstand.
Refurbishment Update
Over the last few months, significant progress has been made, with improvements focused on comfort, accessibility and visitor experience.
Family fun at Horsham Museum
Our school holiday activities return from Tuesday 21 July
Wardens deliver a day of inclusivity at the Steyning Festival
For the second year, our Steyning, Bramber and Upper Beeding Wardens delivered an unforgettable day of inclusive activities as part of the ten‑day 2026 Steyning Festival.
Thanks a bunch for recycling your food waste
Across Horsham District, residents are already making a big difference by recycling their food waste.
Community Governance Review
Look out for our Community Governance Review second consultation later this summer.
Share your views on road safety
Horsham District Community Safety Partnership has Road Safety as a priority for 2026 to 2027 and would like to hear from residents about any road safety concerns they may have.
Comment on our summer Local Plan consultations
This summer, you will see two new Local Plan consultations available for comment.
Working together to support our communities
Our Communities team works closely with a wide and diverse range of local organisations, to enable residents to find the help and services they need.
A year of volunteering
A year of volunteering is planned by our new Chair of Horsham District Council, Councillor Joanne Knowles
Celebrating local volunteering
Horsham District is home to a vibrant array of voluntary groups who bring people together, support those in need, and help build stronger, more connected communities.
Do you pay your Council Tax by Direct Debit?
79% of residents pay by Direct Debit because it’s simple, secure and takes the hassle out of remembering monthly payments.
Did you know?
Council Tax Support, discounts and exemptions are available to help people facing financial hardship to pay their Council Tax.
Are you selling cakes or other food items from home?
The rise of online marketplace services that allow direct selling of items online has become a valuable resource for many looking to earn money flexibly from home or to turn their hobbies into paying work.
You are invited to our Winter Warm Ups
Following the success of our free activity days in 2025, we’re delighted to invite you to our 2026 Winter Warm Ups.
Renting is changing
What the new Renters’ Rights Act means for you
Accessible Horsham District scheme snowballs
Have you heard of the Snowball accessibility app?
New Tern Rafts at Warnham Local Nature Reserve
We’re delighted to share that a brand‑new Tern Raft has been launched at the Reserve, providing a larger and improved nesting area for Common Terns.
Supporting adult wellbeing at every stage of life
Our free wellbeing services are here to support adults of all ages.
Delivering affordable housing
Our forward-looking Housing and Homelessness Strategy (2026–2030) places a strong emphasis on delivering more affordable homes that meet the needs of communities across the District.
Reconnecting nature
Wilder Horsham District (WHD) is a partnership between Sussex Wildlife Trust and Horsham District Council.
Leading the way in Carbon Literacy
The Carbon Literacy Project defines Carbon Literacy as: the ability to understand, communicate about, and act on climate change in our daily lives.
Did you know?
Sign up to the Priority Service Register, find out about financial support from Southern Water and see if you are eligible for social tariffs on your mobile and broadband packages.
Stay independent with our new wrist alarm
Our Community Link devices are designed to give peace of mind, helping people live safely and independently at home and when out and about.
Does your new project need planning permission?
When thinking about starting a project on your home one of the first questions you might ask is: do I need planning permission?
Home Improvements
Your guide from Sussex Building Control.
Council's innovative podcast series wins major community award
We are celebrating national recognition after winning bronze in the Tourism and Leisure Award at the 21st Community Rail Awards, for our ‘Arun Valley Line: Beyond the Rails’ project.
Helping the community save money and natural resources
Our Community Climate Fund offers up to £5,000 for local community organisations to deliver new projects that reduce carbon emissions.
Connect to Work
West Sussex residents who face barriers to securing and sustaining work can get support to find a job with Connect to Work.
Horsham District Jobs and Skills Fair
Don’t miss the Horsham District Jobs and Skills Fair 2026 – now midweek.
Council careers – making a real difference
Working for the Council can offer a varied and rewarding professional path, whether you are at the start of your career or an established expert.
Contact us online
Make our website your first place to find useful information, make payments, submit a report or make an application, and more.
Download July 2026
Prefer to read Our District in a magazine format? Download the PDF version of the July 2026 edition. This PDF meets WCAG 2.2 accessibility standards.