Decision

To approve the refreshed Horsham Growth Deal 2026–2030 (‘the Growth Deal’) (including the action plan contained therein) between Horsham District Council (‘HDC’) and West Sussex County Council (‘WSCC’) as set out in Appendix A to the report.

To sign the Growth Deal together with the Chief Executive on behalf of the Council.

Reasons for the decision

The Growth Deal provides a jointly agreed strategic framework between HDC and WSCC to align investment, resources and delivery activity to support sustainable economic growth across the District.

The Growth Deal:

• Aligns with both councils’ economic strategies and priorities
• Establishes a clear set of shared principles and governance arrangements
• Identifies a prioritised programme of projects to drive growth, regeneration and infrastructure delivery
• Strengthens the Council’s ability to attract external funding and investment

Approval of the Growth Deal will enable continued collaboration with WSCC and partners, maintaining momentum on key regeneration and infrastructure projects and ensuring Horsham District is well positioned to influence future regional funding and governance arrangements.

Alternative options considered

1. Do nothing / do not refresh the Growth Deal

Rejected as this would risk loss of strategic alignment with WSCC, reduce the Council’s ability to secure external funding, and weaken delivery momentum on key growth and infrastructure projects.

2. Develop a standalone HDC growth programme

Rejected as it would not maximise the benefits of partnership working, shared investment, and coordinated infrastructure delivery across the county.