COUNCILLORS of all political persuasion at Waverley Borough Council have approved a motion to oppose a single Surrey-wide unitary authority.

At the full council meeting on Wednesday, July 22, the motion to explore other options around the shape and structure of local government in Surrey was backed by 51 members from across all political parties and independent councillors.

No councillor voted against the motion and two abstained.

The motion was brought to the meeting in response to Surrey County Council’s proposal to set up a Surrey-wide unitary authority, in light of an anticipated government Recovery and Devolution White Paper, due to be published this autumn.

If approved by the secretary of state, this would comprise the largest unitary authority in the UK, serving a population of 1.2 million people – more than double that of the current largest unitary, Cornwall.

But instead of Surrey’s suggested approach, Waverley councillors felt other forms of unitary set-ups should be explored by the executive, including considering opportunities to work with neighbouring counties and districts.

It has been suggested previously that Waverley could form its own unitary with neighbouring Guildford and Mole Valley councils – or perhaps even a cross-border partnership with the likes of Chichester or East Hampshire.

Waverley leader and Farnham Residents councillor John Ward proposed the motion, which stated Surrey County Council’s proposal for a single unitary authority was ‘incompatible’ with the principles of localism.

It was seconded by the deputy leader, Lib Dem councillor, Paul Follows.

Cllr Ward said: “We ought to be focusing on what is best for the people we serve, first and foremost.

“In my opinion, Surrey County Council’s proposal will mean less democratic accountability for local people over the areas they live in – and will also mean local towns and villages will have to compete for attention and financial investment if covered by a county-wide gargantuan authority.

“This news comes at a time when this borough council has really stepped up for the community and shown its value, by providing critical support to residents throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Let’s not forget how local people have also come together with us to support those who are most vulnerable in the community.

“We must continue to build on this fantastic work and listen to, empower and support our communities. There has already been a lack of consultation and discussion on Surrey’s proposal, so this doesn’t instil me with confidence in the future of local democracy under their plan.

“How can Surrey County Council be sure this is right for our communities and not just a financial experiment, when the public have not yet been consulted?

“If the experiences of the past few months have taught us anything, it is that a return to ‘normal’ is not an option and we have to embrace change. But we cannot support what we feel goes directly against the interests of our residents and takes power away from communities.

“I look forward to discussing the range of options with our parish and town councils, neighbouring and Surrey districts, and the county council, hopefully in a very open and constructive way.”