Background
West of Horsham and south of Broadbridge Heath village has seen a large expansion of housing since 2010, with further housing currently under construction adjacent to Newbridge roundabout.
Part of the planning approval of the housing included the developer providing funding for changes to the roundabout at Newbridge (A281 and Billingshurst Road junction) and the A24 Farthings Hill roundabout.
The route was formerly the A264 (now diverted onto a new east-west link west of the Horsham development area and a new A24 roundabout) and part of the planning approval includes downgrading the old A264 Broadbridge Heath bypass; this will be known as the C622. For further planning history, email planning@horsham.gov.uk.
Completed scheme
West Sussex County Council was responsible for the design and delivery of the three parts of the Broadbridge Heath major highways improvements, which consist of:
- alterations to the Newbridge roundabout to restrict access into Broadbridge Heath village from the A281
- re-routing the Billingshurst Road along a new connector road to link it with a narrowed C622
- new shared footways and cycleways and improved crossing facilities at Newbridge roundabout
- a new off-road shared route linking Newbridge roundabout along the wide grass verge to the Tesco roundabout
- a new off-road shared route linking Tesco roundabout to A24 Farthings Hill, which will convert lane one of the existing dual carriageway to a raised footway and cycleway
- changes to lane markings on the dual carriageway link between the A24 Farthings Hill junction and the Tesco roundabout
- cycle and footway improvements to A24 Farthings Hill roundabout, including: the introduction of traffic signal 'toucan' crossings; raised south bridge parapet (for cycle route upgrade); widened footways; and minor alterations to entries and exits to the Hendy showroom and Shell petrol station
Benefits
The schemes, along with other local developments (Countryside Properties New Neighbourhood Centre, currently under construction), will help to improve access for residents, walking and cycling between the junctions and shopping and retail areas.
It manages through traffic movement on the main routes A264, A281 and A24, which used to use the 'old bypass' through the downgrading and closures (except for buses) on the C622, and redirecting this to the new A264 east-west link. These changes are in line with the overall West of Horsham Development area and Horsham District Council Local Plan.
Full completion of works
West Sussex County Council appointed Jackson Civil Engineering (JCE) to build the highway improvements and works started on 7 May 2019, including the road closure of the C622 (Old Broadbridge Bypass, A281) and part of Billingshurst Road between Shelley Drive and Newbridge roundabout, with bus access only.
The scheme partially opened on 18 December 2019. Due to some ongoing verge and footway works, the scheme was completed on 21 February 2020.
JCE undertook public engagement throughout the works, which had been agreed as part of the developer’s planning application/permission. There is always disruption and inconvenience during major construction works and West Sussex County Council and JCE would like to thank all residents and businesses in the area for their patience and understanding during the planned works.
During March and April 2021, some defects and remedials were completed by JCE and also road safety audit alterations. This is now fully completed.
Bus gate alterations - works completed
These works were completed in April 2021 and included changes to the one-way bus gate westbound (from Tesco roundabout) which was altered to allow for eastbound (towards Tesco roundabout) bus infrastructure and changes to the traffic signs and restrictions. The gate continues to be restricted for all other vehicles except buses and cycles.
Ongoing reviews and completed works
West Sussex County Council has installed an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera at the bus gate. The Department for Transport has approved the formal process, and the council is now setting up internal procedures to start enforcement.
West Sussex County Council and the landowner of the Co-op car park have installed speed control ramps. However, many drivers still use the car park to bypass the bus gate.
West Sussex County Council has worked with Horsham District Council to update the Neighbourhood Centre planning permission. It is now discussing with the landowner how to separate parts of the car park to stop through traffic.
West Sussex County Council, Horsham District Council and Broadbridge Heath Parish Council are looking into traffic flow in the area. They know residents are concerned about vehicles using Sargent Way as a cut-through.
A consultation will run from Monday 22 September to Sunday 26 October 2025 to gather feedback on possible options to close Sargent Way.
West Sussex County Council has sent a notification letter to residents and businesses in the parish. It is aware of a spelling error in the email address provided. Both the correct and incorrect spellings of “Sargent” will reach the team. The council apologises for the mistake.
Notifications
Feedback on the scheme should be directed to West Sussex County Council using our online form.