Have Your Say: Surrey’s Two New Councils Need Your Input
Your Voice Matters: Shape Surrey’s New Council Identities
Surrey residents are being invited to help define what their communities will look like under two brand new local authorities. Future Surrey has launched a public survey designed to capture what matters most to you—the people who actually live, work, and build futures in these neighbourhoods.
From April 2027, East Surrey Council and West Surrey Council will take over all local government services currently provided by Surrey County Council and the 11 district councils. It’s a significant reorganisation, and the new authorities are legally required to develop their own distinct identities and branding so residents can easily recognise official services and communications.
This is genuinely important. The branding and identity these councils adopt will shape how services are delivered, how communities are represented, and how neighbourhoods like yours are positioned for growth. Whether you’re thinking about improvements to local streets, supporting small businesses, or planning projects like those undertaken by Guilford builders in the region, the council’s identity reflects its priorities and values. Your input now helps ensure that identity reflects what matters to you.
East Surrey Council: Building Pride in Your Place
Steve Wotton, leader of East Surrey Council, has emphasised that the new authority will prioritise community needs, economic opportunity, and responsive support for residents. The council’s vision centres on fostering genuine pride in where people live, work, and visit—something that resonates deeply across our neighbourhoods.
East Surrey covers diverse communities, from established residential areas to growing commercial zones. The council wants to ensure that from day one in April 2027, services run smoothly and reflect local priorities. That means understanding what makes each neighbourhood tick—whether that’s high street vitality, school provision, housing development, or local services.
The decisions being made now about the council’s identity and direction will have lasting effects. If you’ve noticed changes in your area—new housing developments, business initiatives, or community projects—the new council’s approach will influence how these continue. Community groups, local businesses, and residents who engage with this survey now have a chance to steer the conversation about what East Surrey becomes. The transition period ahead offers a genuine opportunity to help reshape local governance around your actual needs.
How to Participate and What Happens Next
The Future Surrey survey is now open to all residents across the region. You can share your views on the website, which guides you through questions about community identity, local priorities, and what you’d like the new councils to represent. Whether you’re concerned about housing stock and services like loft conversion projects, high street renewal, or community infrastructure, your perspective helps create a complete picture of local needs.
The new authorities need input from across all neighbourhoods—urban centres, residential areas, and emerging communities alike. Local organisations, business groups, and community leaders are also encouraged to contribute. The Liberal Democrats, who gained majority control of both councils in May’s elections, are responsible for guiding this transition as existing councils wind down operations.
Watch for updates on the Future Surrey website and local news sources. The survey results will directly influence the branding, messaging, and initial priorities of East and West Surrey Councils. After completion, these new authorities must be fully operational by April 2027. Getting involved now means your voice shapes the foundations these councils build on. Visit the Future Surrey website to participate, and encourage your neighbours to do the same—this is genuinely a community effort.
Source: Public asked to help define new Surrey council identities
