LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION (LGR)
LGR – WHAT IT MEANS FOR GODALMING
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is a national Government decision to replace Surrey’s current two-tier council system with two new unitary authorities.
This page explains what the change means for Godalming, what has happened so far, and how Godalming Town Council is responding on behalf of the town.
Local Government Reorganisation will change how councils are structured across Surrey, but town and parish councils – including Godalming Town Council – will continue to serve and represent their communities.
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Local Government Reorganisation – Key Points
- Surrey’s current two-tier council system will be replaced by two new unitary authorities
- Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council will be abolished in April 2027
- Godalming will form part of the West Surrey Unitary Authority
- Godalming Town Council will continue to operate as your local town council
From April 2027:
- Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council will be abolished.
- Godalming will become part of the new West Surrey Unitary Authority.
- Godalming Town Council will remain the town’s local council
The Town Council’s approach
Godalming Town Council recognises that Local Government Reorganisation represents a significant change for Surrey.
The Council’s approach is to consider the implications carefully, engage openly with residents, and ensure that decisions affecting the town are taken with prudence, transparency and long-term community benefit in mind.
Use the buttons below to understand what is happening and how it may affect our town.
Further Information
Links to Documents
LOOKING AHEAD
Local Government Reorganisation represents a significant structural change across Surrey.
Change at this scale requires careful preparation.
Godalming Town Council is committed to ensuring that, whatever the wider structure of local government, the town continues to benefit from:
- accountable local decision-making
- well-managed community facilities
- support for voluntary organisations
- responsible financial planning
The Council will approach decisions with prudence, transparency and consultation.
The future structure may change — Our commitment to Godalming will not.
Information on this page
The information provided on this page reflects the current position (as of March 2026) regarding Local Government Reorganisation in Surrey.
The reorganisation process is being led by the Government and will continue to develop during the transition period between 2026 and April 2027.
Godalming Town Council will update this page as further information becomes available.
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