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Guildford's improvement journey delivers real results for residents

Nice view from The Mount

We've confirmed a major milestone in our improvement journey with 18 months of clear, measurable progress that is already making a difference for residents, communities and local businesses. 

At Full Council on the 24 February, councillors reviewed the latest six-month update of the Council's three-year Improvement Plan. The report shows significant strides in the areas that matter most to residents: stronger governance, better managed housing services, clearer financial planning, improved day-to-day performance, and more joined up working across the organisation. 

These improvements are being monitored by the Independent Assurance Panel, whose third external assessment again recognised our determination to strengthen services and deliver better outcomes for local people. The Council fully welcomes their findings. 

Andrew Flockhart, Chair of the Independent Assurance Panel, said:  

"Over the past 18 months, the Council has shown determination and growing capability in delivering its Improvement Plan. We have seen sustained progress across governance, housing, finance and organisational performance. However, risks remain and the Council must continue to sustain progress, including contract compliance, supporting the transition to the new unitary authority and the scale of the Housing Improvement Plan. These areas will require ongoing attention and careful management.  

"Overall, the Council's direction of travel is encouraging, and with continued commitment we expect to see further improvement."  

Cllr Julia McShane, Leader of the Council, said:  

"I'm incredibly proud of the progress we've made over the last 18 months. But what matters most to me, is seeing the improvements we're making having a real impact for our residents, from housing repairs being sorted sooner, to more responsive frontline services that people can rely on every day.  

"We've strengthened how the Council is run, improved key services and built a more resilient organisation. Residents want services they can trust, value for money and a council that focuses on the things that make a difference in their daily life. Our Improvement Plan is about doing exactly that. Residents are seeing services become more reliable, more efficient and easier to use - and that's what our residents should expect from us. 

"I know our journey isn't finished and we have more work to do, but this latest assessment shows just how far we've come. I'm personally grateful for the Independent Assurance Panel's continued insight and challenge, and confident in the knowledge that by working together we'll deliver the long-term improvements our communities deserve." 

We remain committed to strengthening services for residents ensuring they are reliable, stable and ready for the transition to the West Surrey Council.  

The next update on the Improvement Plan is in six months' time (Autumn 2026).  

Read the full Improvement Plan 18-month update report.

 

 

Published on: 25 February 2026