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Have your say on the future of local councils in Surrey

Take part in a landmark Government consultation on proposals to replace Surrey's current councils with up to three larger authorities. We support a three unitary approach - Find out more and read our consultation question guide.

Join us for a special online engagement session hosted by the Leaders of Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils on Thursday 3 July from 7pm to 8pm via Microsoft Teams. We'll explain what Local Government Reorganisation is, outline the different options being considered, and show you how to get involved. Sign up for the session (opens new window).

Have your say on draft guidance for tall building development in Guildford

Aerial view of Guildford

We're asking residents, community groups and developers for their feedback on our draft Tall Buildings Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document will help to guide developers, and support our assessment of development proposals and planning applications for tall buildings in Guildford town centre. The consultation is now open, and you can have your say until 12noon on Friday 8 August. 

When finalised, the SPD will: 

  • give guidance on what we consider to be a tall building in Guildford town centre  
  • provide design guidelines to help manage the impact of tall buildings, and promote opportunities for consistent, high quality design 
  • clarify what we will expect to see submitted as part of a planning application for a tall building, including evidence of its potential impact.   

Cllr Fiona White, Lead Councillor for Planning, says:

"Guildford town centre continues to provide an opportunity for brownfield redevelopment and regeneration. Given its special character, it is vital that we achieve high quality urban design, and ensure we retain a sense of place through good architecture, townscape and public space.  

"Poorly designed tall buildings can harm the character of an area, its heritage, wider views and local amenities. However, with appropriate guidance on their suitability and design, taller buildings could be a positive addition to the town, providing an opportunity for regeneration and the efficient use of land.  

"Supplementary Planning Documents play a vital role in making sure that our policies are applied properly and lead to good development across the town centre. The Tall Buildings SPD cannot set a blanket height limit for proposed buildings, but it will support the careful assessment of sites and tall building proposals from an early stage.  

"I encourage anyone with an interest in the future shape of Guildford town centre to take part in our consultation and have their say." 

The consultation will run for six weeks to give you time to consider the detailed SPD and submit your feedback. We'll also invite stakeholders registered on our planning policy database to take part.  

You can read the draft Tall Buildings SPD online. Printed copies are available to view at our Millmead office and at libraries across the borough.  

You can give your comments: 

We'll review all consultation responses, and the issues raised. An updated SPD will then be considered for adoption by the Council's Executive later this year.   

Published on 27 June 2025.