Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: October 28, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED:   That Cabinet notes the latest developments of Surrey’s Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation (D&LGR) programme.   Reasons for Decisions:   As Surrey transitions to new unitary local authorities, we are committed to maintaining openness and transparency with residents and wider partners. This includes regular updates on our D&LGR work, as well as the development of a strong community engagement model through the Neighbourhood Area Committee (NAC) pilot programme.   The government is expected to announce its decision this month on which unitary proposal will be implemented. Following this decision, current Surrey councils will start to prepare for shadow elections in May 2026 and vesting day for the new unitary councils in April 2027. Ahead of this, legislation will be passed to set up necessary transitionary arrangements, including Joint Committees, requiring councils across Surrey to work in partnership to support the delivery of a safe and legal transfer to the new structures.   (The decisions on this item can be called-in by the Resources and Performance Select Committee)