WHAT IS LOCAL GOVERNMENT REORGANISATION?

Understanding how Surrey reached this decision helps explain why Local Government Reorganisation will affect how services and decisions are managed in the future.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey is part of a national Government programme to simplify council structures in areas that currently operate a “two-tier” system.

 Which Council does what in Godalming?

The majority of services in Godalming are currently provided by Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council, with the Town Council providing more local services that help shape Godalming as a vibrant welcoming community.

The table below highlights a range of services currently provided by Surrey County and Waverley Borough council and which services will become the responsibility of the new Unitary Council. The intention is to create a single point of accountability for the majority of local government services within an area.

Services provided by Godalming Town Council will continue to be provided by the Town Council.

For more information on current services go to our A-Z of council services page

Why Does This Matter?

This is not a minor administrative adjustment.

It is a structural change affecting:

• Who delivers services
• Where decisions are made
• How local priorities are balanced across a larger area
• The geographical area each councillor represents

 How Did Surrey Reach Its Decision?

The process followed several stages:

Government Invitation

Surrey councils were formally invited to develop proposals for reorganisation.

Development of Options

Different structural options were considered, including:

• Two unitary authorities across Surrey
• Three unitary authorities – this option was favoured by Godalming Town Council

Public Consultation

Residents, councils and organisations were invited to comment during a formal consultation period. Godalming Town Council made a formal submission in favour of a three unitary system

Government Decision

Although public consultation favoured a three unitary model, the Government decided Surrey will move to two unitary authorities.

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

What Happens Next?

The transition takes place in stages:

May 2026

Elections will be held for councillors to serve on the new unitary authorities.

2026–2027 (Shadow Year)

The newly elected councillors will prepare to take over services.
All existing councils and councillors will continue operating during this period.

1 April 2027

West Surrey Unitary Authority will formally take control.
Surrey County Council and Waverley Borough Council will cease to exist.

What Is Not Changing?

• Town and parish councils are not being abolished.
• Local democracy continues through elected representatives.
• Public services will continue to be delivered throughout the transition.

Why Does This Matter Locally?

The creation of larger unitary councils changes:

• The scale at which decisions are made
• The geographical area each councillor represents
• The way local priorities compete within a wider authority

Understanding this context helps explain why Godalming Town Council is actively preparing for the changes ahead.

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