Local partners unite to address housing challenges

On 14 July we hosted Homes for Tomorrow, a summit-style event with a focus on tackling local housing challenges and working together to find solutions.

Bringing together local and national expertise

The event brought together a wide range of partners – from central Government representatives to housebuilders, housing associations, community organisations and officers from West Sussex County Council and Horsham District Council.

The goal was to share knowledge, listen to different perspectives from professional groups, and explore ways to overcome the complex barriers to housing delivery

Understanding challenges

Speakers representing central Government gave overviews of the Government’s plans to create more affordable housing and an update on their work combatting homelessness.

Our Council’s senior planning officers presented the current challenges they face in terms of housing targets and incoming changes to the planning system.

The Chief Executive of Horsham District Council’s main housing partner, Saxon Weald spoke about their work, in particular on the development of Extra Care housing for the District.

Action in Rural Sussex spoke about how community-led housing can be beneficial.

Open question and answer rounds and a panel session at the end of the day created opportunities for all those attending to share expertise and learn from each other.

Shaping our new strategy

The insights gathered during the day will help shape the Council’s new Homes for Tomorrow strategy, set to be launched in early 2026.
The strategy will focus on increasing the supply of affordable homes, supporting vulnerable residents, and making sure housing growth is sustainable for future generations. An annual action plan will help keep progress on track.

Leading the way

Horsham District Council is proud to be leading this work. By bringing the right people together and driving the conversation forward, we are committed to finding long-term solutions to helping residents find a safe, secure, and suitable place to call home.