Government confirms plans to preserve Mayor of Woking

The Government has confirmed its intention to establish Charter Trustees for unparished areas of Woking when Woking Borough Council is replaced by the new West Surrey Council on 1 April 2027.

In a letter to Surrey council leaders, Jim McMahon, Minister for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth, confirmed Government intends to establish Charter Trustees for Woking through legislation. The draft order is expected to be laid before Parliament early next year, ahead of the new council coming into effect on 1 April 2027.

Charter Trustees provide a way of preserving the civic identity and ceremonial traditions of a former borough following changes to local government. For Woking, this will enable the borough’s Mayor and associated civic traditions to continue after the council ceases to exist.

Earlier this year, councillors agreed to request Charter Trustee status to protect the Office of Mayor following reorganisation. The borough status that enables Woking’s Mayor and Deputy to be appointed dates to the Royal Charter awarded in 1973.

Under the proposed arrangements, West Surrey councillors representing wards covering the Charter Trustee area would become Charter Trustees. The Trustees would be able to elect a Mayor and Deputy Mayor and maintain Woking’s civic and ceremonial traditions. They would not operate as a separate local authority or hold any decision-making powers of a council.

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, Leader of Woking Borough Council, said: 

I am delighted that Government has listened to our request and recognised the importance of protecting this part of Woking’s heritage.

The Mayor is an important part of Woking’s identity, representing our borough and bringing communities together at civic, community and charitable events throughout the year.

Local government in Surrey is changing, but it is important that we do not lose the traditions and sense of place that make our communities distinctive. Charter Trustee status will enable us to preserve Woking’s proud civic identity and ensure the role of Mayor of Woking continues for future generations.

In the letter, Government also confirmed its intention to establish Charter Trustees for Epsom and Ewell, Spelthorne and the unparished areas of Elmbridge and Surrey Heath, whilst preserving the positions of Lord-Lieutenant and High Sheriff across Surrey.