Timeline
From Woking's bankruptcy in 2023 to the new councils taking power in April 2027.
Woking issues Section 114 notice
Woking Borough Council declares itself effectively bankrupt, revealing debts approaching £2 billion. Government commissioners are appointed to oversee the council.
Grant Thornton publishes Public Interest Report
The auditors' report exposes the scale of reckless borrowing and governance failures at Woking, revealing the council lent hundreds of millions to its own companies.
English Devolution Bill introduced
The government introduces legislation enabling local government reorganisation across England, setting the stage for Surrey's restructuring.
Government invites Surrey reorganisation proposals
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government invites all Surrey councils to submit proposals for reorganisation into unitary authorities.
Two competing proposals submitted
Surrey County Council (with Elmbridge and Mole Valley) proposes 2 unitaries (East and West). 9 of the remaining 11 district and borough councils propose 3 unitaries (North, East, West).
Public consultation opens
The government launches a statutory consultation on the two proposals, running over the summer holiday period.
Consultation closes
After 7 weeks, the consultation closes with 5,617 responses. 51% support 3 unitaries; only 19% support 2 unitaries. 56% explicitly oppose 2 unitaries.
Government announces 2-unitary decision
Jim McMahon, Minister of State for Local Government, confirms the 2-unitary model despite majority opposition. The government cites 'financial sustainability' and projected savings of £23m vs £16m. Woking's debt is cited as a key factor.
Government commits £500m for Woking debt
The government announces unprecedented financial support of £500 million towards Woking's debt, to be managed through the new West Surrey authority. The remaining ~£1.6bn debt stays with local taxpayers.
Surrey Structural Changes Order debated in Parliament
The Surrey (Structural Changes) Order 2026 is debated in the House of Lords. Peers raise grave concerns about West Surrey's financial viability and the concentration of debt.
First elections to new councils
Residents vote for councillors to represent them on the new East Surrey and West Surrey unitary authorities. These shadow councils will prepare for the full transition.
Vesting day — new councils take over
All 12 existing councils (Surrey County Council plus 11 district and borough councils) are abolished. East Surrey Council and West Surrey Council assume full powers and responsibilities.