Surrey council Leaders respond to Government's unitary authority decision

Leaders from eight Surrey district and borough councils have responded to the Government's decision to replace the current 12 councils with two new unitary authorities.

Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Chair of the Surrey Leaders Group representing eight borough and district councils, said:

"We are extremely disappointed by the government's decision to proceed with two unitary authorities, effectively creating two 'mega councils' that risk losing local identity and responsiveness to our community's values.

"This decision goes against the three unitary model put forward by our councils, which we believe offered a more balanced and representative solution for Surrey."

"Despite our concerns, we are determined to play an active role in shaping the two new councils that will replace the existing local government structure in Surrey.

"This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to design a local government structure in Surrey that delivers better outcomes for residents, and we will continue to work together to ensure local voices are heard and reflected in the process."

The Government's announcement confirms that an East Surrey unitary will replace the geographic areas of Elmbridge, Epsom & Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate & Banstead, and Tandridge councils; and a West Surrey unitary will replace the geographic areas of Guildford, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath, Waverley and Woking councils.

Surrey County Council, along with the 11 district and borough councils, will be abolished, with the two new unitary authorities taking responsibility for services such as adult social care, children's services, waste and recycling, local planning and highways.

Done in the right way, the two unitary model creates an opportunity to improve services for residents and businesses focused on their local communities.

Whist Local Government Reorganisation will deliver financial savings over the long-term, the Government has recognised that Woking's debt cannot be resolved solely at the local level. It today announced a first tranche of debt relief that will aid in the reduction of Woking's debt, subject to progress with its asset rationalisation programme. 

Speaking about this financial support, Cllr Dalton added:

"We welcome government's commitment to support Woking Borough Council. This is a positive and necessary step, not just for Woking, but for the wider stability of local government across Surrey."

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council, says: 

"The Government's announcement on Local Government Reorganisation marks a significant moment for Surrey. While we supported the proposal for three unitary councils in the county, our priority remains clear - doing what is best for our residents. By working together with Surrey councils and our partners, we'll use our shared experience and local knowledge to help create new authorities that are responsive, resilient, and deliver for our communities into the future." 

Elections for the new shadow unitary authorities in Surrey are scheduled for May 2026, with new authorities expected to become operational in April 2027.

Find out more about local government reorganisation (opens new window)

Published on 28 October 2025.