The government wants areas like Surrey to become Strategic Authorities — led by an elected Mayor.
To do this, Surrey must first reorganise into unitary councils, which combine county and district & borough services into a single level of government.
Surrey currently has 12 councils. We are proposing to reorganise into two new councils – East Surrey and West Surrey.
Central government is holding a consultation on devolution and local government reorganisation in Surrey.
Why two councils is best
There’s a number of reasons why we think this arrangement is best for Surrey residents and businesses
- It saves money and offers better value for tax payers. Stable finances will protect vital services.
- It simplifies services, delivering everything residents need to a high quality, with fewer points of contact and reduced confusion about which council does what.
- It will strengthen our local communities by connecting people through Neighbourhood Area Committees in towns and villages.
A plan supported by
Other plans for Surrey
Government is also considering a different proposal from some other district and borough councils, to reorganise Surrey into three unitary councils.