Local government in Surrey is changing to make the system simpler, more connected, and better able to meet local needs. This is called Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation. From April 2027, the existing county council and 11 district and borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils – East Surrey and West Surrey.
This website, called ‘Future Surrey’ has been developed by Surrey County Council and the 11 district and borough councils to bring together information, updates and resources about these changes in one trusted place, helping people understand what is changing, why it is happening, and what it means for you.
You will also find a section on Frequently Asked Questions key milestones, timelines and decisions as they happen, all in one trusted place. Once the new councils are established in April 2027, there will be new websites created for each of them, so this website is temporary.
What’s changing?
Following direction from government different options for how local government could be reorganised were explored. Councils developed proposals, shared data, and listened to views from residents, partners and community organisations. A formal government run consultation took place with thousands of people taking part, to help shape the future of local government in Surrey. We’re extremely grateful to everyone who shared their views.
Government ultimately decided that, from 1 April 2027, Surrey's 12 councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils (East Surrey and West Surrey):
- If you live in Guildford, Runnymede, Spelthorne, Surrey Heath, Waverley or Woking you will be part of West Surrey Council
- If you live in Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead, Tandridge you will be part of East Surrey Council
- Surrey County Council services will divide between East and West Surrey Councils
Instead of separate county, district and borough councils, there will be one council in the East and one council in the West providing all the services you rely on - education, waste collection, roads, housing, play areas, the countryside, leisure centres, planning, children’s services, adult social care, community funding, elections and more.
We’re also working with government on plans that could bring more powers into the county and unlock devolution through a Strategic Authority which would sit across the whole of Surrey, helping us make an even bigger difference.
When will things change?
For now, nothing changes in the way you receive services. All councils will deliver services as usual.
Our priority is making sure residents, businesses and communities continue to get the support they need without interruption. You’ll still be able to use the same council offices, community spaces, libraries and online services.
Once the new councils are created, they’ll gradually start to join up how they work and the systems they use. This will happen over months and years, not overnight, so any changes you notice will be introduced thoughtfully and carefully. As the new councils form, some services will be joined up behind the scenes to make things simpler and more efficient. Where changes affect how residents receive a service, those changes will be consulted in the usual way.
We’re also working with government on plans that could bring more powers and funding into the county through a Strategic Authority, helping us make an even bigger difference.
Why is this change happening?
The aim is to make council services simpler, clearer, and better value for residents. By bringing services together under two new councils for Surrey, we can reduce duplication, cut overheads, and free up more money for the services you rely on every day. This means:
- Fewer separate systems to navigate
- One point of contact when you need help
- Better coordination behind the scenes.
Managing debt is also an important part of creating these new councils. Strong, sustainable finances are essential so councils can continue providing vital services now and in the future. Bringing services together under two councils will create long-term savings by reducing duplication, including multiple elections, senior management structures and back-office costs. This helps ensure council tax is spent wisely and efficiently for years to come.