Guildford MP urges public consultation on Surrey mayor plans
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 16:15 · Archive
The government plans to create an elected mayor for Surrey as part of local government reforms, but an MP says it needs public consultation.
The government revealed in October's Budget that a new elected mayor for Surrey is planned, as part of a programme to give communities greater control over decisions affecting jobs, transport, housing and public services. The mayor would work alongside two new unitary councils for West and East Surrey, which will take over all services from the current county and district councils in April 2027.
Guildford MP Zöe Franklin, the Liberal Democrats' local government spokesperson, said she welcomed the government's commitment to devolution but expressed concern at the lack of public consultation. She told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that any devolution deal must provide "real benefits" for the county. Franklin said it was odd that the government promised not to impose mayors without local approval yet had not held a vote or public consultation on the proposal.
She added that she was surprised by the lack of engagement from the government with MPs and local council leaders, given that the statement indicated talks were at an "advanced" stage for establishing a mayoral authority in the area. Details of the mayor's responsibilities would be cemented in a final devolution agreement.
How it is being reported
- New mayor role needs public consultation says MPZöe Franklin says an elected mayor for Surrey would need to bring real benefits to the county.BBC Surrey · 2 Nov, 15:30
- Guildford MP 'concerned' at lack of public consultation over government plans for new Mayor of SurreyLiberal Democrat Zöe Franklin has said that any devolution deal must provide “real benefits” for the countySurrey Live · 2 Nov, 12:49
In this story: Zöe Franklin · Guildford · Surrey · Liberal Democrats
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