Surrey Heath Borough Council has launched a borough-wide Community Governance Review, following a unanimous cross-party decision made at the Full Council meeting on Wednesday 16 July.
The review is being carried out to make sure local governance arrangements across Surrey Heath continue to be effective and reflect the identity and interests of local communities.
The initial public consultation opens today, Thursday 24 July, and will be open until 19 September 2025. During this time, residents are invited to share their views on how their local community is represented. This includes views on current parish boundaries, levels of representation, and how governance is structured at the local level, particularly in unparished areas in the west of the borough, such as Camberley, Frimley and adjacent localities.
Surrey Heath Borough Council Leader Cllr Shaun Macdonald said: "Effective local governance is essential for ensuring residents’ voices are heard and that communities feel represented.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible about what works, what doesn’t, and where improvements could be made.
"With Local Government Reorganisation on the horizon, it’s a real opportunity for local communities to take more control of their future."
In support, Conservative Group Leader Cllr Shaun Garett said: “This review is a welcome opportunity for residents to help shape local decision-making.
“Whatever your views, it’s important that everyone has a voice in how their community is governed.
“I strongly encourage residents across Surrey Heath to take part in the consultation.”
Independent Community Group Leader Cllr Victoria Wheeler said: “This is a timely opportunity to look at how well our current system serves local people.
"I hope residents will take a fresh look at what’s in place and share honest, constructive views on how truly local representation could be improved.”
In addition, Labour Group Leader Cllr Jonathan Quinn said: “This review is about making sure our governance structures genuinely reflect the needs and identities of our diverse communities.
“By taking part, residents can help ensure that local voices are not only heard but truly represented in how decisions are made.”
To take part in the consultation and find out more, visit the Community Governance Review webpage.
Have your say and help shape the future of local democracy in Surrey Heath.