Woodhatch Place in Reigate has been recommended as the preferred location for East Surrey Council's main office building from 1 April 2027.
This is an essential short-term decision needed for the new authority to operate safely and lawfully from Vesting Day.
If approved by the East Surrey Shadow Executive on 14 September, this essential, short-term decision will help ensure the new council can operate effectively and maintain continuity of services for residents from the day it is established, as well as providing a flexible workspace for staff.
The recommendation is intended to give East Surrey Council a suitable base from day one, while allowing time to develop longer-term plans for its offices and buildings across the area.
Continued access to local council services
Residents will continue to be able to visit existing local council offices across East Surrey to enquire about council services and seek support. Online and telephone services will also continue to be available, ensuring residents can access information and support in the way that works for them.
The proposal of Woodhatch as East Surrey’s initial headquarters, will not affect how residents access council services in their local communities.
Councillor Steve Wotton, Leader, East Surrey Shadow Council said:
"This recommendation is about making sure East Surrey Council has the right facilities in place to operate effectively from day one and continue delivering services for residents without disruption. Woodhatch Place offers a practical and cost-effective base for the new council's administrative functions, while giving us time to consider longer-term arrangements for council buildings across East Surrey. Importantly, residents will continue to be able to access services locally through existing council offices, as well as online and by telephone."
How was the recommendation made?
A range of council-owned buildings across East Surrey were assessed against several criteria, including accessibility, transport links, office and council chamber capacity, value for money, IT infrastructure and parking provision.
The assessment identified Woodhatch Place as the location best able to meet the operational requirements of the new authority from 1 April 2027.
The recommendation does not determine future staffing structures or individual employee work locations. Any workforce changes will be considered separately after 1 April 2027 and would include staff engagement and consultation where required.
A report detailing proposals for civic functions will be considered at a later date and will include information about proposed meeting locations and times.