Council reports positive progress on Woking For All Strategy
The latest six-monthly performance report has been published on the Woking For All Strategy, highlighting the progress made in delivering its core priorities and identifying areas for continued focus and improvement.
Adopted in December 2024, the strategy sets out a clear vision for a thriving, inclusive and well-governed borough.
Built around three strategic themes, Thriving Communities, High Performing Council and Effective Partnerships, the strategy is underpinned by 58 targeted actions designed to drive meaningful change and measurable outcomes for residents.
In the latest monitoring period (April to September 2025), 79% of actions were rated green, indicating they are progressing well and on track. Whilst all actions due in the 2024/25 financial year have been successfully completed, demonstrating the council’s commitment to timely delivery and accountability.
Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said:
The Woking For All Strategy is our commitment to delivering meaningful change for residents.
We’ve already laid strong foundations in areas such as governance reform, financial recovery and asset rationalisation. Our strategic partnerships continue to play a vital role in supporting communities, and we remain committed to doing things better, together.
Whilst some actions require further attention, we are actively addressing these through targeted reviews and revised delivery plans. This update reflects both the progress made and the work still to do.
Highlights include:
- Strengthening the way council-owned companies operate, with work continuing towards a full review in October and business cases by December
- Debt reduction and financial recovery progressing, with historic accounts finalised and 2024/25 accounts published within statutory deadlines for the first time in five years
- Review historic charges to the housing service to ensure they are fair, legitimate, and fully justifiable. Take corrective action where necessary
- Delivery of the Bed & Breakfast Elimination Plan, helping reduce reliance on temporary accommodation for homeless individuals and families.
- Disabled Facilities Grant programme delivering, with 144 property adaptations completed.
- Maintaining community partnerships, including continued collaboration with the North West Surrey Alliance to support vulnerable residents.
To ensure the strategy remains current and aligned with community needs, the council will undertake a light-touch annual refresh of actions. The next performance update will cover the period October 2025 to March 2026.