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Residents across Surrey are being urged to take part in a landmark government consultation that will help determine the future shape of local government in the county.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has now officially launched its consultation on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey. This marks the most significant change to local government in the county in over 50 years, giving residents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape how decisions are made, services are delivered and communities are represented.
The consultation is open to all residents, businesses, voluntary groups and local organisations. This is the only opportunity for the public to comment on these proposals - and every response counts.
Cllr Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Chair of the Surrey Leaders Group, said: “Residents have consistently told us that they want decisions made by people who know and understand their communities, and this is supported by over 60% of respondents to the survey that Surrey district and borough councils undertook in April who had a preference for a three-unitary model.
“We believe the three-unitary model best reflects that - delivering better services, stronger accountability, and a future that works for every part of Surrey. Whatever your view, the important thing is that you take part and make your voice heard.”
The consultation is on two options:
- a proposal for two unitaries, an east and a west Surrey, which is supported by the county council and two of the districts and boroughs.
- a proposal for three unitaries, an east, west and north Surrey, which is supported by nine districts and boroughs.
It is recognised and understood that MHCLG will not be progressing or carrying out consultation regarding the Reigate & Banstead/Crawley proposal.
Cllr Hannah Dalton continued: “Both models are financially viable, provided the government addresses Surrey’s unrecoverable debt, mainly in Woking. In correspondence received from the Secretary of State, Jim McMahon MP, we welcome the government’s acceptance that, even after rationalisation of Woking’s historic assets, it is likely that the majority of the councils’ remaining debt cannot be managed locally; but wait to see what this means in terms of support after 2026/27.”
The three-unitary proposal provides a stronger long-term foundation for high-quality local government, including:
- stronger public services designed around local needs
- better alignment with local identities and communities
- greater opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure delivery
- more responsive and accountable local governance.
Cllr Dalton continued: “The government consultation is your only opportunity to influence how your area is governed for future decades.
“We want as many residents as possible to have their say in this consultation, and we have been assured by MHCLG that every response will be treated equally. I would encourage every resident, business, local voluntary sector partner, parish and town council to complete the consultation. For more information on the proposals being considered linked to the government’s questions, please take a look at the Surrey LGR website.”
Alternatively, responses can be emailed to lgreorganisation@communities.gov.uk or in writing to:
LGR Consultation
Fry Building 2NE
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
2 Marsham Street
London SW1P 4DF
The seven week consultation closes on Tuesday 5 August 2025.
Find out more about local government reorganisation in Surrey