The Local Government Re-organisation has reached the stage of submitting final proposals to the Ministry of Local Government MHCLG. The final documents will be discussed by District Councils in the coming days prior to finalisation and submission. Guildford Borough Council is meeting to discuss the proposals on the 6th May 2025.
The new structure for local government will replace the current two-tier system of district, borough and county councils. In its place will be a number of larger Unitary Authorities combined under a Mayoral Combined Authority.
For Surrey there appear to be two proposals on the table 2 or 3 Unitary Authorities.
Surrey County Council have consistently promoted a Two Unitary Authority approach for the county. The Surrey County Council propoal can be seen at the map below and full details can be found in the Surrey County Council Paper at this link.
The Majority of district councils, including Guildford Borough council favour Three Unitary Authorities. Eight of the eleven district and borough councils are proposing a three unitary council model for Surrey. They believe that this is the best way to preserve local democracy and accountability, and would ensure that new councils align with Surrey's existing economic and community identities - creating the foundation for more responsive governance and stronger local economies.
Those councils that have been undecided so far, will make a final decision between the 6 and 8 May.
See proposed Council Map Below. Full Details of the the 3 Unitary proposal can be found in the District Council Paper at this link.
It should be noted that there has been talk of Surrey being operated as one large unitary authority, this would also require that the Surrey Unitary Authority would be combined under a wider Mayoral Combined Authority (MCA) e.g. Surrey, Kent and Sussex.
Final proposals will be submitted to Government by 9 May 2025. The government will make it determination by the ned of 2025, in preparation for local elections in May 2026.
The new structure for local government will replace the current two-tier system of district, borough and county councils.
The removal of Guildford Borough Council and its replacement by a larger in area unitary Authority leaves many questions unanswered. Two are of particular importance.
There are some signs the government has recognised this issue with support for the debt in woking being pledged for 2026/7 which will prevent Woking from destroying the financial viability of nay new unitary authority. A long term solution must be agreed before any unitary is formed.
Help us make Guildford better
We want our town to be vibrant, attractive and liveable. We support development that brings a sense of place and enhances the best aspects of our town. If such aims can be embraced, we believe Guildford has the chance to lead the way in enabling sensitive and sustainable development.
Pressures for development are increasing. Planning rules are being eased. The Society’s commitment to standing up for Guildford is needed more than ever.
Support Us
Getting involved allows the society to continue its work. We welcome new members, from every age and background. Membership provides an opportunity for you to contribute to the continued health of the town and surrounding area, and to meet other people who care about Guildford.
