Guildford Liberal Democrats welcome the news that a new town council has been given the go ahead

Guildford’s Liberal Democrats have welcomed the decision by the West Surrey Council Executive to approve the creation of a new parish/town council for the currently unparished wards of Guildford Borough.

The Executive's approval comes in response to a cross-party majority decision by Guildford Borough Council, ensuring that residents in the town centre and urban wards gain dedicated local representation as Surrey prepares for local government reorganisation and the transition to the new West Surrey Unitary Authority.

The creation of the new town council will deliver a strong, local voice for Guildford and all of its unparished wards. Crucially, the decision guarantees and protects the future of Guildford's historic mayoralty - a cherished civic tradition first created in 1257 - ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Furthermore, the new council will enable targeted, specific investment directly into the community it represents, bringing Guildford’s town wards into line with the borough's existing parish councils.

Welcoming the decision, Councillor Vanessa King, Deputy Leader of Guildford Borough Council, said:

"This is a landmark moment for Guildford and a crucial step in putting residents first. By establishing a town council for our unparished wards, we are ensuring that local people retain a powerful, dedicated voice as we navigate local government reorganisation.

“A Town Council will strengthen local democracy, protect local assets, preserve Guildford's unique civic identity, and ensure that decisions affecting local communities continue to be guided by local people. Most importantly, it will ensure that local government reorganisation does not leave a democratic gap between residents and those making decisions on their behalf.

"Guildford’s mayoralty dates back to 1257, and protecting this historic heritage was non-negotiable for us. This new council not only secures our civic traditions but also ensures local funding can be reinvested directly into community assets and local priorities, just as parish councils do across the rest of the borough. As Liberal Democrats, we remain committed to taking responsible decisions that build a fairer and thriving community for everyone."

Zöe Franklin, Lib Dem MP for Guildford, added:

"Our town has a unique character, rich history, and vibrant community. A town council ensures that our communities from Bellfields to Westborough and the town centre have the strong local leadership and tailored investment they deserve. This is particularly important given the financial challenges the new West Surrey Council faces as a direct result of previous Conservative administrations across the area. 

“I look forward to working alongside the new town councillors and residents to ensure this new council delivers real results for our area."