A plan for two new unitary authorities in Surrey is based on ‘inconsistent, incomplete and flawed data’, opposition councillors say.
Surrey County Council, Elmbridge Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council support the establishment of two new authorities as part of the Government’s reorganisation push, while the other nine borough and district councils want three.
Surrey CC opposition leaders have written to the local government minister arguing the plan for two unitary authorities was ‘not balanced’ and raising concerns over debt owed by councils in the county and a ‘lack of a commitment’ by ministers to cover costs.
Tim Oliver, leader of Surrey County Council, said: ‘The recommended geography for a two unitary split of Surrey is based on evidence, with a huge number of factors taken into account. It is also important to note local support and feedback from partners agencies – including other councils – in the final proposal.’
He added that a consultation held by some of the district and borough councils was ‘purposefully biased’ in favour of a three unitary authority plan.
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