Latest statement from MVDC: -

Central Government’s Local Government Reorganisation Decision

Councillor Stephen Cooksey, Leader of Mole Valley District Council, said: "We have just received the announcement that central government has decided to follow Surrey County Council’s (SCC) request to fast-track the local government reorganisation in Surrey. Consequently, the SCC elections planned for May this year have been cancelled.

“In January this year, I, along with all leaders from district and borough councils in Surrey, expressed our concerns about these proposals and timelines in a joint statement. We believe that the proposed changes require broader consultation with residents, stakeholders, and businesses across the county.

“I am very disappointed with the government’s decision to proceed with this proposal. It feels like a dark day for local democracy. While I fully support the move towards increasing local government efficiency, cost-saving, and enhancing powers at the local level, I believe this decision is rushed and imposed upon us.

“Regardless of this, now that the decision has been made, I want to assure our residents and businesses that we will continue working with SCC and other partners to ensure that future proposals for the formation of the new unitary authority or authorities will be developed with their best interests in mind.”