Surrey County Council has announced that it is moving its headquarters to Woking after more than five decades outside of the county’s boundaries.

Staff will move out of the current county hall in Kingston in phases from spring/summer 2020 and will now be based in Midas House, a modern building close to mainline train and bus links.

Council leader Tim Oliver described the move as ‘momentous’.

‘Aside from the fact that the new civic heart will now actually be inside the county of Surrey, which has been our long-held ambition, the real driver has been the desire to place services right at the heart of the population we are here to serve,’ he said.

‘A new modern facility in Woking will help us achieve not only those objectives but will also help to position us as a leading council fit for the future.

‘This underpins the need for the council to be financially sustainable, as well as being in line with our reduced carbon footprint ambitions and green travel agenda.’

Cllr David Bittleston, leader of Woking Borough Council, said: ‘I am thrilled to welcome Surrey County Council back to the centre of the county – it is fantastic news both for Woking and the wider county.

‘The move will be a major boost for Woking, bringing further new and exciting economic opportunities, jobs and making the town busier and more vibrant.

‘Surrey County Council’s decision to relocate shows that Woking’s regeneration and town improvement works are attracting key businesses and employers to the borough.’

Photo: © Len Williams