GSoc_LGR_Response_Au...
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The Society has responded to the consultation on Surrey Local Government Reorganisation. The Response can be seen below reponding to the the questions asked as part of the consultation. Two similar sets of qustions for a 2 Unitary vs. 3 Unitary approach.
The Society has supported the creation of three Unitary Authorities rather than the alternnative of two. We also call for a Local Governance Review, which has been supported by Guildford Counil, to examine the merits of providing Guildford Town with a Town Council. Currently Guilford Urban Area is unparished.
In our reponse we also raised the issue of unsustainable debt levels in several Surrey Councils notably Woking. After the consultation closed the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government initial debt repayment support to Woking Borough Council (WBC), but had not yet agreed on an amount. A ministry spokesperson said: "It is not typical for a council's debt to be addressed or written off centrally. However, the government accepts that there are exceptional circumstances in Woking due to significant unsupported debt which cannot be managed locally in its entirety."
The support is expected to be received in April 2026 and the government said it would "ensure that any support takes value for money for national and local taxpayers into account".
The society is encouraged to see this position being taken, as the Government has encouraged councils in the past to use cheap loans from the Treasury to invest in assets to supplement local council revue. Local Government revenue has been cut by central government since the begining of the century. We argue that lack of government oversight has contributed to many councils investing badly and that some measure of recompense is justified.
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.
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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.
