The table below sets out a summary of our analysis and options appraisal, highlighting the extent to which a two- or three-unitary configuration performs against the criteria for LGR set out by government.
Our evidence shows that both two- and three-unitary configurations would create financially sustainable local authorities, improving services for residents. Both options deliver significant savings against the current model.
Most importantly, our analysis shows that three unitaries would perform significantly better in terms of meeting government’s wider objectives for local government. In particular, our analysis demonstrates that a three-unitary structure enables the county to foster economic growth, deliver new homes and support infrastructure investment. It also better reflects Surrey's diverse places, identities, and communities.
Importantly, our early engagement of Surrey residents shows that this is their favoured solution, with residents particularly emphasising the importance of decisions being made as locally as possible, by a council that understands local issues.
Adopting an approach that allows the new unitary authorities to plan across functional economic areas will enable us to fully realise the growth potential of these distinct areas and make the most efficient use of limited resources. Local authority boundaries that align with functional economic areas are better equipped to develop and implement policies that meet the specific needs of these areas, enhancing the capacity for partnership working and improving strategic decision-making in the economic development of Surrey and the wider South East. These boundaries also coincide with those of other public sector organisations, such as Surrey Police.
Importantly, a three-unitary structure will lay the essential foundations for devolution and create a meaningful economic footprint to establish a Mayoral Strategic Authority. With the new unitary authorities able to take a coherent and strategic approach to planning for growth, the new mayoral authority will be in the strongest possible position to use its devolved powers to deliver on the national mission of growth, ensuring a strategic regional approach to skills, transport, and planning.
We have scored the criteria for the remaining options between one and five – one meaning it meets very few or none of the criterion’s requirements, three meaning it meets some of the requirements and five meaning alignment to most or all of the criteria.
No weighting has been applied as the criteria provided by ministers did not indicate greater significance or weighting should be applied to some criteria over others.
| Principle | Status quo | 1 unitary | 2 unitaries | 3 unitaries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supports economic growth, housing and infrastructure delivery. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
| Unlocks devolution | 1 | 2 | 4 | 5 |
| Values and advocates for Surrey’s unique local identities and places. | 3 | 1 | 3 | 5 |
| Provides strong democratic accountability, representation and community empowerment. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 5 |
| Secures financial efficiency, resilience and the ability to withstand financial shocks. | 2 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
| Delivers high-quality, innovative and sustainable public services that are responsive to local need and enable wider public sector reform. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Total score (out of possible score of 30) | 10 | 13 | 21 | 28 |
The full reasoning behind the scores applied are set out on the following pages.
We always look for ways to improve our website. Share your feedback on how we can improve the information or structure of this web page.
To get in touch about a service we provide, use our contact us form
Did you find this page useful?