FAQs
Why is the scheme required?
West Parade and North Parade require an update to ageing infrastructure that will improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists at busy junctions and crossing points.
West Parade was identified in the Horsham Transport Improvement Survey as one of three areas for possible improvement to better access education, jobs and services and to connect the growing communities in Broadbridge Heath and Mowbray (North Horsham development) with Horsham town centre.
Feedback from the Horsham Transport Improvement Survey demonstrated local support for these proposals and they have now been progressed to the next stage.
What are the expected benefits of the proposals?
The improvements we are considering are expected to make walking, wheeling and cycling safer and more convenient.
The installation of a contra-flow cycle lane on West Parade will create a dedicated space for cyclists to protect them from vehicles and provide a more direct route for cyclists travelling from west to east Horsham.
Cycle detection technology at junctions will also sense when a cyclist is waiting, so the traffic lights can prioritise them with a green light signal.
Through upgrading two crossings, pedestrians will now be able to cross the road on a signalised (green person) crossing instead of an uncontrolled crossing where traffic does not have to stop, contributing to safer journeys on foot.
By encouraging more people to walk and cycle, particularly for shorter journeys, the proposals would also be expected to help improve air quality in the area.
How will the scheme support broader sustainability or climate goals?
By improving infrastructure for walking, cycling, and wheeling, the scheme supports West Sussex County Council’s sustainability goals to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and encourage more people to choose active travel instead of short car journeys.
How will the proposals be funded?
If the scheme progresses, we intend to use a combination of central Government funding that is made available for these types of improvements and developer contributions to fund the scheme.
Will the improvements be designed in accordance with cycle design guidance?
Yes, all elements of the designs have been developed in accordance with the latest cycle design guidance (LTN 1/20) (opens in new window).
Why are you proposing a contraflow cycle facility? Isn’t it confusing for drivers?
Contraflow cycle lanes allow cyclists to travel safely against the flow of one-way traffic, providing more direct routes. These lanes are common in urban areas and are designed with clear signage and markings to reduce confusion for all road users.
If the proposals go ahead, will there be road closures during construction?
This is unknown at this stage. Before any construction could start, a Construction Management Plan will be developed to minimise the impact on the local community as much as possible. This will detail any necessary road closures or changes to access for pedestrians and cyclists as well as diversion routes during construction. Further details of construction impacts will be made available before construction commences.
Will access to homes and local businesses be maintained during construction?
We will work closely with residents and businesses to maintain access as much as possible. Any changes to access will be clearly signposted and communicated in advance.
What are the next steps?
Following the end of the consultation period, all responses will be analysed and used to help us decide the next steps for the project. We will share a consultation report on this webpage in due course. If the project goes ahead, construction will be expected to commence in 2026.
I want to speak to a member of the project team, what should I do?
You can either email any comments or questions to the team at activetravel@westsussex.gov.uk or you can telephone 01243 642105.
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