Views sought on council reorganisation plans

Residents are to be asked for their thoughts on plans for a reorganisation of councils in Surrey as part of a government consultation.

One of the plans being consulted on is for two unitary councils - one in the east and one in the west - which is supported by Surrey County Council, Elmbridge Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council.

The second is a proposal for three new councils - one in the east, one in the west and one in the north - which is supported by nine districts and boroughs.

The government said: "Under both options, local government services will be streamlined with needless duplication brought to an end – cutting the two-tier premium."

Jim McMahon OBE, minister of state for local government and English devolution, said: "We want local government to be as efficient and effective as possible.

"That's why we're building sustainable unitary councils, able to deliver on local priorities and improve outcomes for local people, as part of the Plan for Change.

"Surrey is leading the way towards stronger local government that provides the high-quality public services people deserve."

A third proposal for Reigate and Banstead to merge with Crawley will not be consulted on as ministers say it "does not meet the statutory requirements".

Neighbouring councils, local public service providers, chambers of commerce, voluntary groups and local residents have until 5 August to submit their views.

The programme of local government reorganisation affects 21 areas in England.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said Surrey was the first area to have their proposals put to a government consultation.

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