Your Voice Matters: Shape Surrey’s New Council Identities
A Once-in-a-Generation Chance to Shape Your Council
Surrey is undergoing one of the most significant local government changes in decades, and your input could directly influence how your area is represented for years to come. The Future Surrey campaign has launched a public consultation inviting residents across the county to help define the brand identities of the two new councils—East Surrey Council and West Surrey Council—that will take over all local government services from April 2027.
This isn't simply about choosing colours or logos. The new councils are legally required to establish distinct identities that will help residents, businesses, and organisations recognise official services and communications. From Guildford to Woking, Dorking to Horsley and East Horsley, communities throughout the region will be represented under these new structures. Your participation in this consultation helps ensure that the identity chosen truly reflects what makes your neighbourhood special and what matters most to you.
What This Means for Your Community Right Now
The transition to two new councils from the current county council and 11 district councils represents a fundamental shift in how local services are delivered. Starting April 2027, everything from planning applications to waste collection, housing support to business licensing will be handled by these new authorities. This is why getting the brand identity right matters—it needs to work for everyone, whether you're running a small business like a bathroom fitters operation in Woking, managing a bathroom refurbishment project in East Horsley, or accessing council services as a resident.
The Liberal Democrats, who gained majority control in May's elections, are now steering this transition process. Steve Wotton, leader of East Surrey Council, has emphasised that the focus will be on ‘community priorities, opportunity and timely support for residents.' The foundations being set now will determine whether these new councils can deliver effectively from day one. Your feedback on what council identity means to you helps ensure continuity and trust as this massive change unfolds.
How to Make Your Voice Heard
The survey is now live on the Future Surrey website, and responding takes just a few minutes. Whether you live, work, run a business, or simply spend time in these areas, your perspective is valuable. Residents, workers, and business owners across all neighbourhoods—from central Guildford to outer Dorking, bustling Woking to quieter Horsley—are encouraged to participate.
The consultation period offers a genuine opportunity to influence how your council presents itself and communicates with you over the coming years. If you've ever struggled with council services or felt disconnected from local government, this is your chance to shape something better. Visit the Future Surrey website to complete the survey before the consultation closes. Spread the word to friends, neighbours, and colleagues—the more responses they receive, the better these new councils can understand what truly represents the identity and values of our Surrey communities. The decisions made now will echo through April 2027 and beyond.
Source: Public asked to help define new Surrey council identities
