Residents are being asked for their views on plans to improve play, recreation and community spaces across Billingshurst.

Horsham District Council is consulting on proposals including new and accessible play equipment, a pump track, new paths and seating.

The public consultation runs from Monday, September 14, to Monday, September 28, with residents able to view the proposals and help shape the final designs.

The planned improvements include a new perimeter path and seating area at Lower Station Road Recreation Ground, alongside a pump track.

Station Road Community Gardens could receive a new seating area, upgraded lighting and improvements to its ballcourt, while a new play area for younger children is proposed at Jubilee Fields. Photo: Google Earth

placeholder image — Station Road Community Gardens could receive a new seating area, upgraded lighting and improvements to its ballcourt, while a new play area for younger children is proposed at Jubilee Fields. Photo: Google Earth

The council says the pump track would be a circuit of bumps and dips that can be cycled without pedalling and would be suitable for both young children and experienced riders.

At Natts Lane Play Area, new sensory, accessible and natural play equipment is proposed.

Station Road Community Gardens could receive a new seating area, upgraded lighting and improvements to its ballcourt, while a new play area for younger children is proposed at Jubilee Fields.

Ruth Fletcher, cabinet member for planning and infrastructure, said: “The exciting improvements will create better places for children to play, help people of all ages to be more active and make some of Billingshurst’s most valued community spaces even more welcoming and accessible.

“Local people have already played an important part in helping us identify where investment is most needed. We are encouraging residents to look at the proposals and tell us what they think, so that together we can deliver improvements that will benefit the Billingshurst community for many, many years to come.”

The projects form part of the council’s Better Billingshurst Programme, which is investing in community facilities and infrastructure across the parish.

The programme is funded through a £1 million contribution, from Horsham District Council and developer contributions, arising from housing development in Billingshurst.

Essential roof repairs at Jubilee Fields Pavilion have already been completed as the first project from this stage of the programme.

The work was prioritised because of the deteriorating condition of the roof, with the council saying the repairs will safeguard the building so it can continue to support local sports clubs and community activities.

Mark Betts, chairman of the Billingshurst Sports and Recreation Association (BSRA), said: “The soffits, fascias, bargeboards and guttering on the pavilion were all in very poor condition, so we are delighted to see these vital repair works completed and would like to thank Horsham District Council for supporting this project.”

The council has worked with Billingshurst Parish Council and local community organisations to identify priorities and develop the proposals.

The projects were selected following earlier consultation with the wider community and consideration by the Better Billingshurst Spending Panel.

The panel includes representatives from Horsham District Council, Billingshurst Parish Council and the local community and considers priorities for investment from the programme’s funding.

Residents can view the proposals and take part in the consultation via Horsham District Council’s consultations page.