Last month we published an article by Nick Harrison about a proposal to consider establishing town and parish councils as a means of improving local representation following on from central government’s proposals to merge county and borough councils into unitary authorities.
On the 21st July a meeting of residents was held at the Banstead Community Centre at which Reigate & Banstead’s Chief Executive, Mari Roberts-Wood and Governance, Civic and Electoral Services Manager, Alex Vine, explained what this would involve and announced a consultative process to allow residents to have their say.
Over 50 residents attended a meeting at Banstead Community Centre
They told us that a local consultation process would start on the 24th July leading to draft recommendations being approved by the full council in November. This would be followed by a second consultation targeted at households likely to be affected by such proposals. The results of this consultation would be reviewed between January and March leading to final recommendations being signed off by the Borough Council on the 26th March 2026. If any proposals were agreed there would be elections a year later in May 2027 to elect Parish or Town Councillors.
Any residents wishing to see the presentation made by Mari and Alex can view a video of a similar presentation made in Reigate.
There are already many Parish and Town Councils throughout Surrey but currently only two in Reigate & Banstead. Horley has a town council and Salfords and Sidlow have a parish council. The local functions conducted by these bodies can vary but typically break down into three areas:
Services – such as allotments, car parks, parks and playgrounds, etc.
Improving the quality of life – such as community hubs, neighbourhood plans, etc.
Giving the community a voice – such as planning, local policing, healthcare, etc.
In simple terms, the upside is more local control and voice, but the downside is a potential increase in Council Tax. Horley residents pay an additional £55.21 (Band D) per year to cover the costs of their town council. In Salfords & Sidlow, residents pay an extra £33.06 (Band D)
Although councils should regularly review their structure, the motivation for this consultation is to ensure residents have a strong voice when unitary authorities are introduced.
The general view of the meeting held last month at Banstead Community Centre was that a Town Council covering the area of the Borough north of the M25 would be a viable option to be considered. Please share your views by visiting the consultation survey here:
The survey closes on the 18th September.
The Tattenham & Preston Residents Association is considering whether to support the proposals, and would be pleased to hear any views, comments and questions from residents. Please email Kath Chattelle, chair at kjchattelle@hotmail.co.uk