Residents invited to help shape the future of West Surrey Council

These plans will guide the services the council provides, the investment it makes and the outcomes it wants to achieve for local people and communities.

Residents, businesses, community groups and local organisations are being encouraged to share their views on the draft strategies and priorities, including what matters most in their local area, what is working well and where improvements are needed.

The new council will be responsible for a wide range of services that support everyday life, from helping vulnerable children and adults, maintaining roads, supporting local businesses and communities, planning for new homes and infrastructure, protecting the environment and ensuring residents can access the services they need.

• People can take part through the online survey between Monday 19 October and midnight on Sunday 15 November. 
• A programme of local drop-in events will also take place across Surrey, giving residents the opportunity to ask questions and speak directly with representatives from the new councils.

Further information can be found at West Surrey Council Strategy  

At a time when councils across the country are facing increasing demand for services, rising costs and changes to government funding, feedback from residents will help ensure future resources are focused on the issues that matter most to local communities.

Councillor Paul Follows, Leader of West Surrey Shadow Authority, said:

"The creation of West Surrey Council is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a council around the needs of residents, communities and businesses."

"We want West Surrey to be a place where people thrive, communities flourish, opportunity is shared and residents can trust their council to deliver. As we develop the council's vision and priorities, it is important they reflect what matters most to local people.

"We're asking residents for their views on our draft ambitions for West Surrey: a place where people can access the homes, opportunities and support they need; where communities and businesses can thrive; and where a trusted, well-run council listens, delivers and makes the best use of residents' money."

"Like councils across the country, we will face significant financial challenges from day one. That makes it even more important that we understand local priorities and focus our resources where they can have the greatest impact. Whether you complete the survey online or attend one of our events, your views will help shape the future direction of the new council and the services it provides."