The council meeting focused on a contentious planning application for the development of 800 dwellings, a sports and leisure hub, and a local center at Fortune North. The application was ultimately refused due to multiple planning concerns.

Decision: Refusal of Planning Application The application for the development at Fortune North was refused. Proponents argued the development would provide much-needed housing, sports facilities, and community benefits, including a home for Horsham Hockey Club and Warren Clark Golfing Dreams. Opponents raised concerns about the impact on local infrastructure, water neutrality, landscape harm, and the project's alignment with existing local plans. The refusal was based on the development's inconsistency with strategic spatial planning, potential risks of coalescence between Horsham and Southwater, and inadequate infrastructure to support the new housing. The decision underscores the council's commitment to adhering to established local plans and the importance of infrastructure readiness in approving new developments.

Additional Information The meeting was notably civil, with public attendees respecting the council's request for decorum despite the high passions surrounding the development proposal. The council's discussion highlighted a significant gap between the need for community sports facilities and the mechanisms available to fund and develop these resources independently of large housing developments.