Plans to improve the Bishopric area of Horsham are due to be considered by councillors next week.

Members of Horsham District Council's communities and place policy scrutiny committee will review the latest designs and costs for the scheme, when they meet, on Wednesday, September 9.

A council spokesperson said: “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."

The local authority listed the ‘key elements of the proposals’, which have been ‘shaped by extensive feedback from the public’

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. (Picture courtesy of Horsham District Council)

placeholder image — 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. (Picture courtesy of Horsham District Council)

They are: “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 council said damaged paving and planters will be replaced, as part of the scheme. There will be upgraded street furniture and wayfinding and new planting to ‘increase urban green space’.

Once reviewed by the scrutiny committee, the proposal will then go forward for cabinet approval.

The council said construction is expected to begin in January 2027 and be completed by April 2028. This is ‘subject to approval of the final technical designs’.

Ruth Fletcher, cabinet member for planning and infrastructure, 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 council said the project ‘builds on years of public engagement’. It begun with the Horsham Town Centre Vision, adopted in 2017, and was followed by the Public Realm Strategy in 2021. Funding for the detailed design and delivery of the scheme was approved in 2023.