More than 5,000 leaflets were delivered to homes across Emsworth as part of ongoing engagement around the Community Governance Review. Volunteers reported a warm response on the doorstep, with many residents expressing enthusiasm for giving Emsworth a stronger voice in local decisionmaking.

A parish council, they felt, could help improve local services and ensure the town’s needs are better represented.  While a small number of residents raised concerns about the potential for an additional tax at a time of financial pressure, many families in particular said they believed a local council could help expand opportunities, improve facilities and give children the best start in life.

The Emsworth Farmers’ Market also proved a lively hub of discussion. Visitors and residents were keen to share their views, with many completing the survey on the spot — and several were surprised to learn that Emsworth does not already have a parish council. The Havant Borough Council Community Governance Review held information forums at the Baptist Church. They were well attended and participants appreciated the input of the team in providing independent information on what a parish council is. Thanks go to Nick and the team for running these informative events.

Emsworth Residents Forum remains confident that the town has the energy and community spirit needed to build a strong parish council. They believe such a body could bring together voluntary groups, support residents who need extra help, improve local facilities, and unlock new grant funding. While a parish or town council cannot solve every challenge, the Forum argues it could make a difference by giving residents a stronger voice, targeting funds where they are most needed and helping to keep Emsworth special.

The Forum hopes residents’ views will be fully reflected as the Community Governance Review moves into its second consultation phase which will consider the number of councillors, potential asset transfers and the town’s capacity to run an effective parish council. It is hoped that the positive response on Hayling Island will also translate into a second phase of consultation. We look forward to working with Governance Review team as we move closer to the potential of becoming a parish council alongside Hayling Island.The

EMS Spring 2026