The East and West Surrey Joint Committees met on 13 March to facilitate a smooth transition to the new East and West Surrey authorities, set for 1 April 2027.
These committees, comprising councillors from current councils, will meet monthly until the Shadow Authorities are established after the May 2026 elections. Their focus is on laying strong foundations and ensuring stability during this transition.
Key discussions included the Implementation Programme, where the Joint Committees oversee the Implementation Team’s work to ensure a seamless transition. A draft financial baseline report was presented, highlighting the financial pressures both councils will face, including rising service demands and limited resources.
West Surrey, in particular, faces challenges due to historic debt, emphasising the need for careful financial planning. The baseline report serves as a starting point for the Shadow Authorities, aiming to establish stable councils through strong governance, financial oversight, and government engagement to address Woking’s debt issues. A ministerial letter from Alison McGovern MP in February 2026 confirmed the government’s ongoing support for resolving these legacy debt issues.
Post-elections, Shadow Overview and Scrutiny Committees will review implementation plans, providing independent challenges to ensure plans are realistic and legally sound. This scrutiny is crucial for maintaining a well-considered transition.
During the Shadow Period, the Surrey (Structural Changes) Order 2026 allows Shadow Authorities to set their meeting schedules. The Joint Committees discussed a draft timetable, with meetings expected to start on 20 May 2026.
In terms of devolution, Surrey councils are in talks with the Government to bring more decision-making powers locally through a countywide Strategic Authority. This could lead to a Foundational Strategic Authority, enhancing local decision-making and potentially paving the way for a future Mayoral Strategic Authority.
Terence Herbert, senior responsible officer for devolution and local government reorganisation, emphasised the importance of planning, governance, and financial planning to support residents from April 2027. Cllr Bridget Kendrick and Cllr Ann-Marie Barker highlighted the focus on governance, financial understanding, and oversight to ensure a smooth transition to the new councils.
Meeting papers, councillor lists, and webcasts are available for the East and West Surrey Joint Committees, with the next meetings scheduled for April.
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