Fighting for West Surrey’s Future

As I’m sure you will know, Surrey is now undergoing major local government reorganisation, replacing borough and county councils with new unitary councils. I support simplifying the system, as residents often face confusion over which council handles issues like bins or potholes. Reorganisation is also the only realistic way to address the severe financial problems caused by years of underfunding, including the huge debts run up by previous Conservative leaderships in Woking and Spelthorne.

However, I have concerns about the speed of the process. Residents were not properly consulted, and survey results showed clear support for a three-council model, yet the Government is pushing ahead with two. Their timetable feels driven by cost-cutting rather than what best serves local residents and communities. 

This week, I raised these issues in Parliament, highlighting the need for proper funding - West Surrey will inherit £3-4.5 billion of debt even after the unprecedented £500 million Woking bailout. Without sustained support, there a serious risk that residents will face higher council tax or reduced services despite the efforts of Liberal Democrat councillors across the existing councils.

I also pressed the Government on local accountability. Parish councils play a vital role, yet there is little help for creating new ones, and proposed Community Boards may not provide the same level of democratic oversight. I’m also concerned that by-elections will be heavily restricted from 30th September, potentially leaving communities underrepresented until the new councils are formed in 2027. 

I will continue to support reorganisation in principle, but only if it delivers better services, strong local accountability, and financially stable councils for the people of Surrey. Local residents and communities should always be our number one priority with these changes.