Epsom and Ewell’s councillors say they’re disappointed with the Government’s decision to devolve Surrey’s boroughs into two.

The Government has announced the creation of East Surrey and West Surrey Unitary Authorities.

It’s after council leaders in the county told the government they’d be happy to devolve their powers back in March.

Of the options on the table, Epsom’s councillors had favoured a three unitary authority approach for Surrey.

However, it says it remains fully committed to working constructively now the government has announced the county will be split into two.

Epsom will be part of East Surrey along with the likes of Mole Valley and Elmbridge.

The change will take place from April 2027.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, said:

“Although this is not the decision we had hoped for, our focus now is on supporting the transition in a way that protects our residents’ interests and maintains the quality of local services.

“Epsom & Ewell has always prided itself on being a well-run, community-focused council, and that commitment remains unchanged.”