Surrey’s local government reorganisation plans confirmed, as government announces new East and West councils.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has announced two new unitaries in Surrey as part of its Local Government Reorganisation plans. According to the MHCLG, eleven district and borough councils and one county council will give way to two unitary authorities – West Surrey and East Surrey.
These new authorities are set to take on full council roles starting in April 2027. Each new council will serve a large population, exceeding 500,000 residents.
- The West Surrey unitary authority will incorporate the current lower-tier councils of Spelthorne, Runnymede, Surrey Heath, Woking, Guildford, and Waverley (estimated population: 672,500).
- The East Surrey unitary authority will comprise Elmbridge, Mole Valley, Epsom and Ewell, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge (estimated population: 556,150).
According to the government, the decision is driven by the potential for improved resident services and achieving long-term financial stability across the county.
While the County Councils Network welcomed this decision, stating that the Surrey County Councils’ initial proposal of two unitaries was the most credible and compelling one, the District Councils Network (DCN) expressed concerns.
The DCN highlighted that an overwhelming majority of district councils had endorsed a three unitary option and argued that large councils risk misrepresentation of local communities.
Soundbites
Simon Edwards, chief executive at County Councils Network: “Today’s decision to proceed with the creation of two unitary councils in Surrey is the right decision. With Surrey seeking a mayoral combined authority, the creation of more than one council was required in this area and the county council put forward the most credible, compelling and evidence-based proposal in line with the government’s criteria […].”
“Importantly, we strongly welcome the government sticking to its own statutory guidance, creating two new councils with populations in excess of 500,000.”
Cllr Richard Wright, chair at District Councils’ Network: “The Government’s approval of such large new councils risks making it harder for Surrey’s local government to represent the concerns of communities and to ensure services are responsive to local needs.”
Tim Oliver, leader of Surrey County Council: “We welcome the government’s direction to create two new unitary councils for Surrey from April 2027 […]. As set out in submissions earlier this year, and confirmed by government, all the evidence points to this being the best outcome for Surrey – saving money, simplifying services and strengthening local communities.”