Let's talk about devolution
On 16 December 2024, central government published a White Paper on the topic of devolution – the de-centralisation of government power to local or regional authorities.
The White Paper proposed the creation of more Mayoral Strategic Authorities in areas that don't currently have one – like Surrey.
This approach means that additional power is given to the local communities who know their areas best, giving them more control over decision making and implementation of services.
The government also outlined plans to create more unitary councils to simplify and streamline local government.
How this impacts Surrey
The government expects all two-tier areas to reorganise in the coming years.
At present, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council. As a result, different services are currently delivered by the district and boroughs councils, and the county council. If Surrey were to move to a unitary model, the county and district and borough councils would all dissolve and a new unitary council or councils would deliver all the services.
We could also see a new Strategic Authority created, led by a new Mayor. This could cover the whole of Surrey, or Surrey could join together with neighbouring councils with a Mayor sitting across a larger geography.
Impact on County Council elections
The Leader of Surrey County Council, Tim Oliver recently submitted a letter to central government (PDF) requesting that Surrey is part of the 'first wave' of areas looking to take part in local government reorganisation (LGR) and devolution. Central government will review this request and make a decision on whether Surrey will or won't be included in the first wave.
If government decide to include Surrey in its programme, then it will also likely choose to postpone the County Council elections scheduled for May this year. Ultimately, this decision to postpone the elections can only be made by central government, in the context of devolution across the whole country. We should know the government's decision on this very soon.
When will this all happen
If Surrey is selected for the 'first wave' of reorganisation and devolution and elections are delayed, then it is likely that elections for any new unitary councils would take place in 2026, and Mayoral election in 2027.
If our request to join the first tranche is denied, then county council elections will take place in May 2025 as currently planned.
We will keep you updated on progress for any devolution and local government reorganisation plans. Follow us on social media for the latest news.