As your Union, we're always looking for opportunities to highlight your voices at a national level. 

The Government is currently consulting on plans to reorganise Surrey’s councils, which could result in the creation of up to three new unitary councils. This would be the biggest change to local government in the county in over 50 years - and it’s the system that will shape the services, decisions and the economy affecting your life for years to come.

Whether you’re passionate about local democracy, care about how decisions are made in your community, or just want to understand what’s going on - this is your chance to get involved.

What’s Happening?

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is about changing how councils are structured in Surrey. Instead of the current two-tier system (county and borough/district councils), the proposal is to move to a unitary model - meaning fewer councils, each responsible for all local services.

There are two main options being considered:

• Two unitary councils
• Three unitary councils

Each option has different implications for how local services like transport, housing, education, and waste are managed.

Why respond to the consultation?

This is the local government you’ll be living in during your time at Surrey. Whether you’re studying here, living here long-term, or just want to understand how decisions are made, this is your chance to have a say in how your community is run.

Even if you’re not sure which option is best, it’s important to be informed and take part in the consultation. Your voice matters, and we strongly believe that students deserve to be heard in decisions that affect their future.

Have questions? Attend a Q+A session

Want to find out more or ask questions directly? Guildford Borough Council are running free in-person Q&A events with Cllr. Julia McShane, Leader of Guildford Borough Council:

• Guildhall, Guildford – Thursday 24 July, 19:00 – 20:30
• Ash Manor School, Ash – Monday 28 July, 19:00 – 20:30

Book your free space here.

Complete the consultation

Whether you already have a view on the reorganisation or just want to learn more - you have the chance to have your say before the consultation closes on Tuesday 5 August. You can read more about the proposals here, and take part in the consultation here.