Progress continues towards a modern and accountable West Surrey Council
West Surrey Council preparations are progressing, with shadow councillors approving governance arrangements to support transparent, accountable decision-making from day one.
At its latest meeting, the West Surrey Shadow Authority reviewed progress against the local government reorganisation implementation programme.
Councillors also approved important governance arrangements that will help ensure the new council operates transparently, is accountable to residents and is ready to deliver effective services from its launch in April 2027. These included measures to strengthen ethical standards, support transparent decision-making, clarify how councillors and officers work together, and uphold high standards of conduct across the new authority.
The work forms part of the extensive programme underway to establish West Surrey Council ahead of Vesting Day on 1 April 2027, while ensuring services continue to be delivered for residents without disruption.
Cllr Paul Follows, Leader of the West Surrey Shadow Authority, said:
"The pace of work to create West Surrey Council continues to accelerate as we move closer to April 2027.
"Our ambition is to create a modern, financially sustainable council that puts communities at the heart of decision-making, delivers excellent local services and provides value for money for residents.
"This latest meeting marks another important step forward. Alongside the detailed work taking place behind the scenes to bring organisations, people and services together, we are also putting in place the governance, transparency and accountability arrangements that residents rightly expect.
"There is still much to do, but significant progress continues to be made. Our focus remains on delivering a smooth transition, maintaining services throughout the process and ensuring West Surrey Council is ready to serve residents effectively from day one.
"Local government reorganisation gives us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a stronger council for the future, one that is closer to communities, responsive to local needs and equipped to deliver the services residents rely on."
Go to the agenda and webcast for the September West Surrey Shadow Council meeting.