Horsham District Council publishes new 2026 accommodation study
- Horsham District Council has released the 2026 Accommodation Study to support local business growth.
- The district's visitor economy generates over £253 million annually and supports 4,500 jobs.
- The study encourages a shift toward experience-led tourism like wellbeing retreats and nature-based activities.
- The report replaces the council's 2017 strategic accommodation assessment.
- Business leaders and Experience Sussex have welcomed the new research for its strategic insights.
Horsham District Council released the Horsham District Accommodation Study 2026 on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, to provide a strategic assessment of visitor demand and support local business growth. The report was published to assist in the development of the visitor economy within the district.
Visitor economy generates £253 million annually
In other developments, construction of the Corran Ferry landside infrastructure began in January 2026 and is scheduled for completion in summer 2027.
Strategic shift toward experience-led tourism
The study identifies low levels of overnight stays and recommends that future growth should prioritise experience-led tourism. This approach focuses on wellbeing retreats, nature-based activities, and sustainable tourism rather than simply increasing the total number of visitors.
Councillor Jonathan Taylor outlines business intelligence goals
Councillor Jonathan Taylor, Cabinet Member for Enterprise and Property, described the study as an invaluable source of business intelligence.
The council has made the full report freely available online.
The Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, a partnership between the UK and Scottish governments, has delivered £412.98 million in public and private investment.
The Highland Council’s 2025/26 Annual Report shows 234 affordable homes were completed and occupied, with 109 additional homes in development. Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, said the deal demonstrates the results of public and private sector collaboration.
The committee will review the 2025/26 Annual Report on Thursday 12 November 2026. Councillor Gowans said the deal provides a foundation for future discussions regarding a growth deal for the Highlands.
Industry partners and local businesses welcome findings
A spokesperson said the report provides valuable insight into the district as a distinctive visitor destination.
Experience Sussex said it looks forward to working with the council and local businesses to maximise these opportunities.
Owners of Sumners Ponds Fishery and Campsite in Barns Green said the findings resonate with the direction they have taken.
The study demonstrates the growing importance of these specific consumer trends.
The Science Skills Academy provided STEM learning to more than 6,100 pupils during the 2025/26 period. The academy also developed a Green Skills module for secondary school students.
Study replaces 2017 strategic assessment
The new study replaces the previous strategic accommodation assessment from 2017. It is available on the Horsham District Council website alongside a business summary.
The Northern Innovation Hub reached full completion in 2025/26. The hub supported nearly 3,000 businesses and social enterprises, assisted three start-ups, and helped 24 small and medium-sized enterprises with innovation activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
- New study published to support business growth and visitor economy development in Horsham District (chichester.co.uk)
- Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal delivers £412.98 million investment across the Highlands - Highland Council (highland.gov.uk)
- Charleston’s Expanding Economy Sets the Stage for Hotel Market Growth (hospitalitynet.org)
- Saudi Arabia’s year of AI: The real test begins with business (gulfbusiness.com)
- Horsham District (Wikipedia — background) (en.wikipedia.org)
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