Major Change to Local Government in Surrey

Two New Unitary Councils Announced.

The UK Government has announced a major reorganisation of local government in Surrey. From April 2027, the county’s twelve existing councils will be replaced by two new unitary authorities, designed to simplify local services and improve efficiency.

For residents of Hurst Park and West Molesey, this means that Elmbridge Borough Council will become part of the new East Surrey Unitary Council, which will cover:
Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge.

The West Surrey Unitary Council will include:
Guildford, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath, Waverley, and Woking.

From 2027, these new authorities will be responsible for all local government services, including:

Waste collection and recycling

Planning and housing

Adult social care and children’s services

Highways, transport, and education

Elections for the new councils will take place in May 2026, ahead of the formal transition in April 2027.

Until then, Elmbridge Borough Council and Surrey County Council will continue to operate as usual and deliver all local services.

🗣️ What This Means for Elmbridge

Councillor Mike Rollings, Leader of Elmbridge Borough Council, described the change as:

“A significant step for local government in Surrey. Creating two unitary councils will support long-term financial sustainability and deliver better value for residents.

A stronger local council in charge of all services will help drive economic growth and improve local public services.”

The government has also confirmed a commitment to repay £500 million of Woking Borough Council’s debt in 2026–27, as part of wider financial reforms.

Over the coming months, Elmbridge Borough Council plans to engage with residents through community events and updates to explain what the new structure means in practice.

🏡 What Happens Next

For now, residents should continue to contact Elmbridge Borough Council for local services and Surrey County Council for matters such as highways, schools, and social care.

The HPRA will follow developments closely and share updates as more information becomes available.