Elmbridge news
 Government announces two new councils for Surrey
The government has announced a significant reorganisation of local government in Surrey. The county’s existing twelve councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils, creating a simpler and more efficient system for delivering all local government services across the county.
The creation of two unitary councils in Surrey means that from April 2027 an East Surrey unitary authority will replace the current areas covered by Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge councils. A West Surrey unitary will take over the areas of Guildford, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath, Waverley, and Woking.
In 2027, the new unitary authorities will have responsibility for all services including waste collection, planning, adult social care, children’s services, and highways.
Elections for the new councils will take place in May 2026, with the new authorities formally taking over responsibilities from 1 April 2027.
In the meantime, Elmbridge Borough Council will continue to support you and provide local services and Surrey County Council will continue to have responsibility for highways, schools and adult and child services for example, as they do now.
Councillor Mike Rollings, Leader, Elmbridge Borough Council:
“This is a significant change for local government in Surrey. Creating two unitary councils in Surrey will support the long-term financial sustainability of local government and deliver better value for our residents.
“A stronger local council in charge of all local services, will be equipped to drive economic growth and improve local public services.
“Government has also confirmed a commitment to repay in-principle £500m of Woking Borough Council’s debt in 2026-27 and to explore what further debt support is required at a later point.
“On the issues of elections and devolution, the draft Structural change order from government will have more information on these and we will update you when we know more.
“Over the coming months, we will continue to engage with residents and communities across Surrey to provide information, address questions, and discuss the benefits and opportunities associated with unitary status. Further details will be shared in the weeks ahead and will include an in-person series of events around Elmbridge in the new year.
“Throughout the process, we will work hard towards a smooth transition for our residents – you are our priority."
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