Interim proposals for local government reorganisation and devolution in Surrey have now been submitted to the government.
Leaders from all twelve Surrey councils have outlined a shared vision for the future, with options to divide Surrey into two or three unitary councils. This is a key step in the government's timeline, aiming for elections in May 2026.
Surrey has been prioritised for local government reorganisation and is required to submit final proposals by 9 May 2025.
The government will decide on the future structure of local government in Surrey this autumn. The new unitary councils are expected to be established by April 2027.
The interim proposals submitted was divided into the following three elements.
Joint Working - Part A
This section outlines the principles of local government reorganisation in Surrey, detailing how all twelve councils will collaborate on LGR and devolution. It highlights opportunities for residents and businesses across Surrey and identifies areas for further discussion with the government.
Read our joint working principles (PDF - 1.08MB)
Districts' & Boroughs' Proposal - Part B
This section details the proposals for future reorganisation from Surrey's district and borough councils. Whilst not all district and borough authorities have expressed a clear preference at this stage of the process, of the majority that have, all strongly support and recommend a three unitary model.
Read the Districts' & Boroughs' Proposal (PDF - 10.14MB)
Surrey County Councils' Proposal - Part B
This section presents Surrey County Council's proposals for future reorganisation in Surrey, with their preferred option being to replace the twelve councils with two unitary councils.
Read Surrey County Councils' Proposal (PDF - 2.85MB)