William Eichler 14 May 2025

Surrey reorganisation plan based on ‘flawed data’, opponents claim

Surrey reorganisation plan based on ‘flawed data’, opponents claim image
County Hall of Surrey, the headquarters of Surrey County Council. © Brookgardener / Shutterstock.com.

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.

For more on this story visit The MJ (£).

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Standards, Compliance and Development Manager - Children’s residential provisions

Oxfordshire County Council
£57187.00 - £60485.00
This role will lead on Quality Assurance, Standards development, and Regulatory compliance for Oxfordshire’s residential children’s provision, including the unregulated reforms 2022. The post holder will conduct internal inspections within the registe Countywide
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Streetcare LGV Driver / Operative - WMF2112e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£27,711 - £28,624
Westmorland and Furness Council are seeking to employ an enthusiastic and motivated person into a Street Cleansing role Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Specialist Communication Support Worker (CDC)

City Of Doncaster Council
Grade 7, £27,259 - £29,955 (pay award pending)
The City of Doncaster Council puts improving the life of its residents at the centre of everything we do. Doncaster, South Yorkshire
Recuriter: City Of Doncaster Council

Apprentice Social Value

Durham County Council
£14,566
Earn. Learn. Qualify.   Do you want to earn while you learn, with the chance of progression once you qualify? Do you want the opportunity to grow, dev Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Pay Reward and Employment Services Support Officers

Durham County Council
£25,584 to £27,711 p.a. (Grade 5) Pay Award Pending
An exciting opportunity has arisen for ten Pay, Reward & Employment Services Support Officers to join our CIPP accredited team.   WHAT IS INVOLVED?  Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner