Local Government Reorganisation plans for Surrey
On 16 December 2024, central government published a White Paper on the topic of devolution – the de-centralisation of government power to local or regional authorities.
The White Paper proposed the creation of more Mayoral Strategic Authorities in areas that don't currently have one – like Surrey.
This approach means that additional power is given to the local communities who know their areas best, giving them more control over decision making and implementation of services.
The government also outlined plans to create more unitary councils to simplify and streamline local government.
Interim proposal submitted to Government
On 9 May 2025, our final plan for Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution in Surrey was submitted to government. The final plan was supported by Elmbridge Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council.
You can now read our final plan online.
Devolution explained
How this impacts Surrey
At present, Surrey has a two-tier council system, with 11 district and borough councils and a county council. As a result, different services are currently delivered by the district and boroughs councils, and the county council.
The government expects all two-tier areas to reorganise in the coming years, and has confirmed that Surrey will be on an accelerated programme to do so.
If Surrey were to move to a unitary model, the county and district and borough councils would all dissolve and a new unitary council or councils would deliver all the services.
We could also see a new Strategic Authority created, led by a new Mayor. This could cover the whole of Surrey, or Surrey could join together with neighbouring councils with a Mayor sitting across a larger geography.
How services will change
Whilst it is too early to know exactly how individual services might change, our services will still be delivered and we will still be here for those that need us most. Local government reorganisation has taken place in several areas in the last decade, including Dorset, Cumbria, Northamptonshire and Wiltshire. We are talking to colleagues in other parts of the country to take on board learnings and ensure a smooth transition.
Working at Surrey County Council
There has never been a better time to work in local government. If you’re interested in working for Surrey County Council but not sure how Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation would impact your employment, check out our information for applicants.
Next steps
We have now sent our final plan to government for devolution and local government reorganisation in Surrey.
This sets out how we recommend arranging Surrey into 2 councils, west and east, replacing the current county council and 11 district and borough councils. These two councils would also work with a strategic authority which will have a Mayor.
We’ve analysed a wide range of data and our approach is supported by many of our partners including health, police, fire, business and community leaders, as well as Elmbridge Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council. 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, with stable finances to 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 newly created Community Boards in all the towns and villages.
Other plans for Surrey will also be sent to government. This includes a proposal from most district & borough councils for three unitary councils.
Now government has received plans for reorganisation in Surrey, they will ultimately decide on which option to take by the autumn. We will then be working together with all councils in Surrey to make this happen, gearing up for elections to the new authorities next may.
We will keep you updated on progress for any devolution and local government reorganisation plans.
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