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Positive steps in collaboration between Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils

Aerial view of Guildford

Yesterday, our Executive approved plans to move forward with our Transformation and Collaboration Programme (opens new window) with Waverley Borough Council. 

Last year, the councils agreed to work together and appointed a joint management team. As the collaboration progresses, our aim remains to sustain and improve local services.  

There are clear, tangible financial benefits to the collaboration that both councils are already seeing. Our joint management team costs nearly £900,000 less per year than the previous two teams. We expect further savings and efficiencies over time as the detail of more partnership working develop. 

Waverley's lead councillors will meet on 28 November to discuss the programmes recommendations. If Waverley agrees, both councils will start the Transformation and Collaboration Programme. This programme lets us plan more ways to work together, including: 

  • looking at shared workforce options 
  • looking at the feasibility of a joint headquarters 
  • commitment to necessary financial commitment 
  • joint Executive meetings to progress the programme and work together. 

Council Leader, Cllr Julia McShane, was thrilled to share our news: 

"Yesterday's meeting marked a significant milestone in our collaboration with Waverley. This decision demonstrates our commitment to a joint vision. 

"We know it's important to take things step by step in our decision making. We will carefully consider potential changes over time. Any changes we'll make will protect local services, be in the best interests of our community and make both our councils financially stronger in the long term. 

"The savings our joint work has already achieved shows the success of our joint management team. Building on this success, we eagerly anticipate exploring further collaborative opportunities. 

"Together, we aspire to create a brighter future for our communities. Our collaboration will help us drive meaningful change for improved service delivery. We know that our two councils working together will pave the way for our boroughs to thrive."