Last year, it was confirmed that Surrey's existing county, district and borough councils will be replaced by two new unitary authorities: East Surrey and West Surrey. From 1 April 2027, Elmbridge will become part of East Surrey Council alongside Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead, and Tandridge. 

In the meantime, Elmbridge Borough Council remains the local planning authority and must meet new government requirements to formally start work on a new Local Plan by 31 December 2026. 

Continuing this work during local government reorganisation will help maintain progress and provide a strong, up-to-date evidence base on the borough's future needs and priorities. This includes feedback from residents and other stakeholders, as well as technical bodies, which will be available to the new East Surrey Council. 

An up-to-date Local Plan provides clear policies to guide planning decisions, support the delivery of housing and other development needs and reduce reliance on speculative development proposals and planning appeals. 

After 1 April 2027, East Surrey Council will decide how this work is taken forward as part of future planning arrangements. The work carried out now will help ensure those decisions are informed by evidence about local needs, priorities and community views.