The government has decided to reorganise local government in Surrey, transitioning to two new unitary councils: East Surrey and West Surrey, effective April 2027.
This change aims to simplify the current two-tier system, in which county, district, and borough councils share responsibilities, by consolidating services under a single council per area. The reorganisation is expected to save money, simplify services, and strengthen local communities through Neighbourhood Area Committees.
The new East Surrey council will replace Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge councils. West Surrey will replace the councils of Guildford, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath, Waverley, and Woking. The transition will be overseen by newly elected shadow authorities, with elections scheduled for May 2026. These shadow authorities will operate until the official vesting day on April 1, 2027, when the new councils take over.
In addition to structural changes, there is an ambition to establish a Mayor for Surrey, which would bring powers and funding closer to communities, enhancing local decision-making and economic growth. Discussions with the Minister for Devolution are ongoing to determine the timeline for this development.
Financial sustainability is a key reason for the reorganisation, with the government committing to repay £500 million of Woking Borough Council’s debt in 2026-27 as part of the transition. This is the first tranche of debt support, with further assistance to be explored later.
Until the transition is complete, the existing 12 councils will continue to operate and deliver services as usual. Residents are assured that there will be no immediate changes to service access, and council offices and community spaces will remain open. The government will provide updates as plans progress, and more information is available on their website.
Picture Surrey CC
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