What you need to know about our campaign for a new Guildford Parish Council
Guildford’s local government is changing – Guildford Borough Council is being abolished in 16 months, and the Borough will become a part of the larger West Surrey Unitary Authority.
Guildford’s ten town wards would be the only ‘unparished’ area of Guildford Borough, and with a population of around 80,000 residents, the town risks losing its own distinct voice.
The Guildford Liberal Democrats have been leading the campaign to ensure Guildford can continue to have its local voice heard and run its local services in the best interest of local residents.
Guildford Borough council is seeking views from residents before making a final decision on how, or even if, the parish council could be created.
Which areas would make up the new parish council?
The following wards comprise Guildford town: Bellfields and Slyfield, Burpham, Castle, Merrow, Onslow, St Nicolas, Stoke, Stoughton North, Stoughton South and Westborough.
What is being proposed?
To set up a parish area called ‘Guildford’ consisting of ten wards currently in the Borough, keeping their existing names, and electing 24 parish councillors.
This council would be responsible for a variety of key local services including allotments, children’s play areas and sports facilities.
The new parish council would be funded through a small precept of between £5 and £8.34 a month, added to council tax bills.
More information can be found here: https://www.guildford.gov.uk/cgr
How can I have my voice heard?
Guildford Borough Council is currently running a survey, in order to hear the views of local residents. You have until midnight on Sunday the 1st of March 2026 to complete the survey. The link can be found here: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/guildfordcgr2026
You can also complete the survey in print form in an information pack that will be sent to every household in the unparished area of Guildford.
