A proposal for Local Government Reorganisation, which would see the county divided into two or three unitary councils has been published by all 11 of Surrey’s district and borough councils.
This move is part of Surrey's involvement in the first wave of Local Government Reorganisation, which the Government has stated is a pre-requisite to unlock the benefits of devolution.
The proposal asserts that by reducing the number of elections, councillors, and senior managers, Surrey could realise significant financial savings. Additionally, the new councils would benefit by eliminating the duplication of services and finding further economies of scale. The evidence suggests that two unitary councils would offer greater financial savings (£35m pa) than three (£20m pa).
However, dividing the county into three distinct areas: North-West, South-West, and East – each covering around 400,000 residents – could offer far more than just financial benefits. This structure would allow the new authorities to recognise existing cohesive geographic and economic regions that give each authority a genuine sense of identity.
This would lead to more effective service delivery and better alignment with local needs. It would also enhance the ability to foster local economic growth.
The vast majority of district and borough leaders agree the three unitary authority option would strike the best balance between efficiency and maintaining genuine local accountability, as well as maximising opportunities for economic growth by ensuring that unitary authorities reflect the economic geography of Surrey.
Councillor Paul Follows, Leader of Waverley Borough Council, said:
"This is a pivotal moment for the future of local governance in Surrey. By moving to unitary councils, we can streamline services, reduce costs, and better respond to the needs of our communities. At the same time, we recognise the opportunity to strengthen our local economies and create more cohesive, dynamic areas. But only if the new councils represent areas that have a consistent geography, local economy and identity that residents recognise.
“I am convinced that only the three unitary option could deliver new councils that unlock all of the potential benefits, while remaining fully responsive to local needs and accountable to local people.
The proposal will be discussed at council meetings across Surrey Districts and Boroughs on 17, 18 and 19 March. It can be viewed as part of the agenda pack for the Waverley Borough Council Extraordinary Full Council Meeting on Tuesday 18 March.