Shaping Surrey's Future, the Interim Proposal for Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution in Surrey has now been submitted to government. Leaders of all 12 Surrey councils have outlined a shared vision for Surrey, with options to split Surrey into two or three unitary councils following reorganisation. This is an important step in government's timeline, working towards elections in May 2026.
Our Cabinet recommend that Surrey's 12 councils are replaced with two new unitary councils. Backed by supporting evidence, two councils would create simpler, more effective, sustainable and cheaper local government for Surrey.
Below you can read the interim proposal, which is split into Part A and Part B.
Shaping Surrey's Future
Part A
Joint Working
Principles of local government reorganisation in Surrey, setting out how all 12 councils will work together on LGR and devolution. Highlights opportunities for residents and businesses across Surrey and raises topics where further discussion with government is welcomed.
Part B
Surrey County Council's Proposal for Surrey's future
Part B sets out proposals for future reorganisation in Surrey, including advantages and disadvantages of different options, approaches to implementation and engagement and steps needed to finalise proposals.
Surrey County Council's preferred option is to replace the 12 councils with two unitary councils.
Districts' & Boroughs' Proposal
Most district and borough councils preferred option is to replace the 12 councils with three unitary councils.