The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, Steve Reed has confirmed the dissolution of Surrey County Council and its 11 Borough and District councils and the creation of two new unitary authorities – West Surrey and East Surrey.
West Surrey Unitary : Waverley, Guildford, Woking, Surrey Heath, Runnymede, and Spelthorne
East Surrey unitary : Mole Valley, Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge
The new unitary authorities will have responsibility for all services including waste collection, planning, adult social care, children’s services and highways.
Elections for the new Unitary Authorities will take place in May 2026 with the new authorities formally taking over responsibilities from 1st April 2027. Existing County, Borough and District Councillors are expected to remain in post until 31st March 2027.
The Government has also confirmed a commitment to repay in principle £500m of Woking Borough Council debt in 2026-27 and to explore what further debt support is required at a later date.
For more on the changes view the Governments response – LGR_Briefing_Note-October-30-2025.pdf