Devolution
The Government has set out proposals for local government reform.
The English Devolution White Paper (opens new window) outlines plans to move away from the current two-tier system of district and county councils. These will be replaced by:
- A Strategic Authority
Usually, this means a directly elected Mayor will be responsible for strategic services including transport and infrastructure, skills and employment, economic development and regeneration.
- Unitary authorities
One council will provide services for their area. This will replace the two-tier county and district council system currently in place in Surrey and many other parts of the country.
Surrey County Council asked to be part of the Government's Devolution Priority Programme (opens new window), which will see chosen areas reorganised quickly. In February 2025, the Government confirmed that Surrey was not selected for the Devolution Priority Programme. However, given the urgency around creating unitary authorities in Surrey, the Government did give permission for local elections to be postponed from May 2025 to May 2026.
Postponing the elections will enable Surrey to move forward with devolution as quickly as possible. The Government has asked for interim plans to be submitted to them by 21 March, and full proposals by 9 May. We are working with our neighbouring authorities and Surrey County Council to submit a single plan for devolution in Surrey.
We will update our website as further Government announcements are made and devolution plans develop. You can also find the answers to frequently asked questions on devolution and local government reorganisation on our dedicated webpage.
We'll continue to deliver services for our residents, business and communities throughout the devolution process. You can find out more about our services on our website or please contact us if you need support.