FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This section answers some of the most common questions residents have raised about Local Government Reorganisation and what it may mean for Godalming

Is Local Government Reorganisation a decision made by Godalming Town Council?

No.

Local Government Reorganisation is a national Government decision affecting the whole of Surrey.

The Government has decided that the current two-tier system of Surrey County Council and district/borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary authorities.

Godalming will form part of the new West Surrey Unitary Authority from April 2027.

Will my council tax increase because of Local Government Reorganisation?

The new West Surrey Unitary Authority will set its own council tax levels once it takes over responsibility for services.

Godalming Town Council will continue to set a separate town council precept, as it does now.

If the Town Council were ever to consider proposals involving significant borrowing or additional long-term costs, residents would be consulted before any decision was made.

Is the Town Council trying to take over everything?

No.

The Town Council is carefully considering which community assets or services might benefit from local management.

In some cases, facilities that are important to the town may be better protected if they are managed locally rather than by a much larger authority covering many towns and communities.

Any such decisions would be taken openly and with public consultation where appropriate.

Why are asset transfers being discussed now?

Local Government Reorganisation will change the structure of councils across Surrey.

When councils are reorganised, ownership of assets and responsibilities for services may also change.

It is therefore sensible to consider future arrangements now, while discussions with existing councils are still possible.

What happens to assets that are not transferred to the Town Council?

 Assets currently owned by Surrey County Council or Waverley Borough Council will normally transfer to the new West Surrey Unitary Authority.

The new authority will then be responsible for managing them alongside services across a much larger area.

Are town and parish councils being abolished?

No.

Town and parish councils are not affected by Local Government Reorganisation and will continue to operate as part of the local government system.

Godalming Town Council will remain your local elected council.

Will Godalming lose its identity within the new council structure?

Godalming will continue to exist as a town with its own Town Council, elected councillors and community organisations.

While some decisions will be taken by the larger Unitary Authority, the Town Council will continue to represent local priorities and support community life in Godalming.

How can I stay informed?

Updates about Local Government Reorganisation and the Town Council’s work will continue to be published on this webpage.

Information will also be shared through:

• Town Council meetings (which are open to the public)
• Council communications and newsletters
• Future consultation exercises where appropriate

Residents are encouraged to follow developments and share their views when opportunities arise.

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