Your Council Tax Explained

Published: 6 March 2026
Last updated: 6 March 2026

This publication explains how your council is funded, how Council Tax is shared out and how much it is increasing by. There is also details on how to pay your Council Tax and help for households who may be struggling to pay it.

Leader's message

As we move into 2026/27, the council continues to deliver essential services and facility improvements for Surrey Heath residents as cost efficiently as possible. We are also preparing for change following the Government’s decision to create West Surrey Council, replacing the current two-tier local government system.

While this council supported a different structure which we felt better reflected our local identity, we are positively engaging throughout the transition to ensure the new arrangements best support local decision-making, protect community interests, and maintain the high-quality services our residents expect and deserve.

With elections taking place in May 2026, West Surrey Council will start assuming its full powers and responsibilities in April 2027. Throughout this transition period, our priority remains ensuring stability, continuity, and clear communication with our communities.

Residents should continue to seek support when needed from ourselves and Surrey County Council in the usual way throughout the year ahead. We are here for you.

We also have important improvement projects to complete this year including multiple playground refurbishments, exciting new leisure facilities, and key infrastructure upgrades in Camberley town centre, Lightwater Country Park and Frimley Lodge Park.

We will continue to work closely with partners in our community to help make Surrey Heath a safe, welcoming, green and fair place for all to live, work, play and learn.

Shaun Macdonald, Leader,
Surrey Heath Borough Council.