Local elections will take place across Surrey tomorrow, Thursday 7 May 2026. These elections are part of a major change to local government in Surrey and will not follow the usual district, borough or county format. Instead, voters will elect councillors to the two new unitary councils being created under Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).

What’s happening with local government in Surrey?

Surrey is moving from a two-tier council system to a single-tier structure. Currently, residents receive services from Surrey County Council and one of eleven district or borough councils. From April 2027, this structure will be replaced by two new unitary authorities:

• East Surrey
• West Surrey

Each new unitary council will be responsible for all local services in its area, including:

• Waste collection and recycling
• Planning and building control
• Adult social care and children’s services
• Highways and transport
• Housing and homelessness support
• Environmental health
• Leisure and community services

The aim of the reorganisation is to simplify local government, reduce duplication, improve service delivery, and provide clearer accountability for residents.

Please make sure you vote for those with genuine interest in our local community.

Don’t forget your voting cards and photo ID!