Surrey is progressing with its transition to two new unitary authorities, East Surrey Council and West Surrey Council, set to replace the current county, district, and borough councils by April 2027.
The Voluntary Joint Committees for East and West Surrey, comprising councillors from existing councils, are meeting monthly to plan this transition. These committees will continue until shadow authorities are formed following the May 2026 elections.
In their February meetings, the committees reaffirmed their commitment to creating modern councils that deliver high-quality services and ensure a seamless transition. They adopted core principles of collaboration, trust, honesty, representation, respect for expertise, and accountability.
An update on the Implementation Plan was received, outlining the transition process. The committees also established a transparent process for filling key statutory posts and forming an Independent Remuneration Panel for councillor allowances.
Communication with residents is a priority, with updates provided through the Future Surrey website, social media, newsletters, community venues, and printed materials.
Terence Herbert, senior responsible officer for devolution and local government reorganisation in Surrey, emphasised the focus on stability, transparency, and continuity, stating, “Our focus remains on ensuring stability, transparency and continuity. That means putting robust governance in place, preparing clear processes, and making sure residents know what’s changing, what it means for them, and how they can take part in the upcoming elections.”
Cllr Bridget Kendrick, chair of the East Surrey Voluntary Joint Committee, highlighted the importance of a strong implementation plan, while Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, chair of the West Surrey Voluntary Joint Committee, stressed the need for transparency and maintaining strong services.
Additionally, the government is inviting areas undergoing reorganisation to express interest in setting up a Foundational Strategic Authority, which could lay the groundwork for a mayor. Surrey councils will consider this by the March 20 deadline. The next committee meetings are scheduled for March 13 in Esher.
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