Horsham Town, community and home
Every two weeks The Horsham Society puts a brief article in this newspaper. However, given the current situation it seems inappropriate to be writing about one of our normal topics. Yes, we need more housing that our young people can afford. Yes, the society feels that it has a role to act as a critical friend to Horsham District Council, putting a spotlight on things that we believe require attention and commenting on policies or decisions that we believe might harm the town, but these are things to return to once the present risk to health is passed.
Today instead it is more relevant to reflect on the fact that for those of us who live in the area over which the society keeps a watching brief, the town of Horsham, the town is very much our home.
Unless we are one of the very hardworking ‘key workers’, we are largely confined to our flats or houses, already for several weeks and probably for several more. Horsham is in every sense where we live. It is a time when we can reflect upon the quality of our town, its pleasant centre with the Carfax, West and East Street, the
Causeway leading down to the church and the river Arun, the town’s open spaces and its setting in the West Sussex countryside. If you take your opportunity for daily exercise, while you may not be able to visit all parts of the town, you can I hope venture as far as one or more parts of it.
Many of us have also hopefully discovered that we are part of a community, we have neighbours who have been in touch, a note through the door offering help if required or an email. It was brilliant to go to our front door to clap our support for the NHS workers and see so many smiling neighbours doing the same thing.
In the present circumstances showing respect seems to be more important and more relevant than ever. Without doubt, respect is due to all those working in the health services, working hard and putting themselves at risk. Respect is also due to everyone else who is still able to and indeed having to work. Without these people there would be no food in the shops, no buses or trains for those who need them and no bin collections! We also need to show respect for our fellow Horsham residents, just take what we need when shopping and stay in touch with people who might need help.
Horsham District Council has had a significant amount of criticism from Horsham Society over the years. We are all quick to criticise but praise is less often given. Well, some respect for the council is due. Consultants are currently looking at how the appearance of the centre of Horsham can be improved. We are pleased that the consultants have clearly listened to our comments and are making some good suggestions. We are pleased also to have been consulted on the content of the brief to the consultants considering the future of the Drill Hall and what is needed in terms of community buildings across the district and in Horsham town.
Enjoy your town and stay safe.
The Horsham Society is concerned about the past, present and future of the town. It seeks to promote good planning and design for the built environment and open spaces. Membership of the Horsham Society is open to anyone who shares these concerns. For more information, visit the website www. horshamsociety.org or phone 01403 259038.