This week in Surrey:

Council Grapples with Pension Fund Investments Amidst Global Market Volatility

The Surrey Local Pension Board met on Monday, June 1st, to review the financial health and strategic direction of the Surrey Pension Fund. While the fund's overall value stands at a substantial £6.8 billion, recent market volatility has led to a 1.5% decrease in its value during the last quarter. The board also discussed the significant implications of the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the fund's structure and investments.

Pension Fund Performance and Market Challenges

The Surrey Pension Team reported that despite a challenging market environment, the fund's long-term performance continues to exceed strategic targets. The 2025 triennial valuation revealed a robust funding ratio of 160%, indicating a strong financial position. However, the board acknowledged the impact of global market uncertainty on short-term returns.

A key discussion point was the strategic asset allocation, with advice to reduce equity and private market exposure and increase investment in index-linked gilts. This move, while potentially attractive due to current real yields, was questioned by some board members as being overly defensive. The board was assured that even with these adjustments, the fund would maintain a significant 50% allocation to equities, still higher than many peer group funds.

• What's Happening: The Surrey Pension Fund is navigating market volatility and planning strategic investment shifts.
• Why it Matters: The fund's performance directly impacts the retirement security of thousands of Surrey residents. Sound investment decisions are crucial for long-term financial stability.
• Impact on Residents: A well-managed pension fund ensures that public sector workers receive their promised pensions, contributing to their financial well-being in retirement.
• Key Concern: Balancing long-term growth with short-term market fluctuations, especially as the fund prepares for significant structural changes due to LGR.

You can find more details in the Surrey Local Pension Board meeting agenda.

Local Government Reorganisation and its Impact on the Pension Fund

The impending reorganisation of Surrey into two unitary authorities (East and West Surrey) presents a complex challenge for the Pension Fund. The board received an update on the funding impact of LGR, with modelling options presented for the creation of new authorities and a potential Single Purpose Pensions Authority (SPPA).

The analysis suggests that new unitary authorities would likely have contribution rates similar to the current Surrey County Council rate. However, the proposed approach for disaggregating assets and liabilities indicates a provisional 55/45 split for East/West Surrey respectively. The SPPA is expected to be established on a no-more-than-fully-funded basis, with any surplus retained by Surrey County Council. The board was asked to endorse the methodology for these calculations, a decision that will have long-term financial consequences for the new authorities and their pension liabilities.

• What's Happening: The Pension Fund is preparing for the structural changes brought about by Local Government Reorganisation.
• Why it Matters: The LGR will fundamentally alter how the pension fund is managed and how its assets and liabilities are distributed. A clear and fair division is essential to protect members' interests.
• Impact on Future Governance: The decisions made now will shape the governance and operational structure of the pension fund for years to come.

Internal Audit and Risk Management Updates

The board also reviewed internal audit reports, which provided a Reasonable Assurance opinion on the iConnect Process and the Customer Relations Team. While positive, these reports did highlight areas for improvement, such as inconsistencies in process documentation and the need for better complaint resolution guidance.

The risk register update revealed that while some risks have been reduced, the ongoing issue of 'Unit 4' – relating to system limitations and processes – continues to be a significant concern, with two related risks still marked at a high level. This persistent challenge is consuming considerable management time and highlights the ongoing need for robust IT infrastructure to support the fund's operations.

• Internal Audit: Reports indicate reasonable assurance but highlight areas for improvement in processes and complaint handling.
• Risk Management: The persistent 'Unit 4' system issue remains a high-priority risk, impacting operational efficiency.

Audit and Governance Committee Reviews Financial Controls and Counter-Fraud Efforts

The Audit and Governance Committee met on Wednesday, June 3rd, to scrutinise the council's financial management, internal audit performance, and counter-fraud activities. The committee noted the council's treasury management outturn for 2025/26, which confirmed compliance with all prudential indicators and the CIPFA Treasury Management Code of Practice.

Treasury Management and Internal Audit Performance

The council's gross borrowing increased by £148 million to £1.2 billion, primarily to fund the capital programme. The report confirmed that the council remained compliant with all debt and investment limits. The Chief Internal Auditor provided an opinion of Reasonable Assurance¹ over the council's governance, risk management, and internal control arrangements for 2025/26, an improvement from the previous year. The audit plan was delivered at 98.1%, exceeding the target.

• What's Happening: The Audit and Governance Committee reviewed the council's financial performance and internal controls.
• Why it Matters: Robust financial oversight is essential for public trust and the effective delivery of services. These reviews ensure public money is managed responsibly.
• Impact on Services: Strong financial governance underpins the council's ability to fund essential services and invest in community projects.

Counter Fraud Efforts and Annual Report

The committee also reviewed the counter fraud annual report, which detailed 54 allegations received, leading to an estimated £4.2k in fraud prevented or detected. Proactive work included refreshing the Counter Fraud Strategy and conducting National Fraud Initiative (NFI) exercises, which identified potential savings of £1.5 million. The committee also commented on its own annual report for 2025/26, preparing it for submission to the full council.

• Fraud Detection: The counter fraud team investigated allegations, preventing and detecting financial losses.
• Proactive Measures: The council is actively working to prevent fraud through strategy updates and data analysis.

Joint Health and Overview Scrutiny Committee Discusses Frimley Park Hospital and Community Engagement

The Joint Health and Overview Scrutiny Committee (Frimley Park Hospital) met on Tuesday, June 2nd, to discuss the new Frimley Park Hospital programme and the council's approach to community engagement. The committee also elected a Vice-Chairman.

Frimley Park Hospital Programme and Community Voice

A key agenda item was the New Frimley Park Hospital Programme, indicating a focus on developments and plans related to the hospital's future. The committee also intended to examine how the council engages with and listens to its communities, a crucial aspect of local governance that ensures services are responsive to residents' needs.

• What's Happening: The committee reviewed plans for Frimley Park Hospital and discussed community engagement strategies.
• Why it Matters: Hospital developments directly impact local healthcare services. Effective community engagement ensures residents' voices are heard in decisions affecting their health and well-being.
• Impact on Residents: Improved hospital facilities and responsive community engagement can lead to better healthcare outcomes and a stronger sense of local involvement.

Procedural Matters

The meeting also included standard procedural items such as apologies for absence, agreeing minutes from the previous meeting, and declarations of interest. Public and member questions were also to be received.

Other Matters

Surrey Police and Crime Panel Complaints Sub-Committee

The Surrey Police and Crime Panel Complaints Sub-Committee met on Monday, June 1st. The committee was scheduled to consider complaints made against the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, with the aim of seeking informal resolutions. Discussions also included a specific complaint, designated as Complaint 0068, and the Commissioner's response to it. The agenda also indicated a potential exclusion of the public from certain parts of the meeting due to the likely disclosure of exempt information.

• What's Happening: The sub-committee met to consider complaints against the Police and Crime Commissioner.
• Why it Matters: This process ensures accountability for elected officials and provides a mechanism for residents to raise concerns about the conduct of the Police and Crime Commissioner.

This week in Surrey:

Council Approves Land Swap for Extra Care Housing and Sells Off Residential Properties

The Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions met on Tuesday, May 26th, to approve a land swap that will facilitate the development of much-needed extra care housing. This decision is part of a wider strategy to ensure residents can remain independent and receive the support they need. The meeting also saw the approval for the sale of three residential properties, aiming to rationalise the council's property portfolio and generate capital receipts.

Land Swap to Boost Extra Care Housing

A freehold land swap at Salisbury Road, Worcester Park was approved to support the development of affordable extra care housing. This initiative is a key component of the council's Right Homes, Right Support by 2030 strategy, which aims to provide suitable housing options that allow residents to live independently while accessing essential health and social care services. The land swap is crucial for providing the necessary access for this development. The cabinet member formally declared the land surplus to operational requirements and delegated authority to senior officers to finalise the transaction. Importantly, the Scouts will be allowed to continue using the land being transferred to the council until a new road access to Row Hall is constructed, ensuring minimal disruption to their activities.

• What's Happening: A land swap was approved to enable extra care housing development.
• Why it Matters: This directly addresses the growing need for housing that supports independent living for older residents and those with care needs, preventing potential strain on more intensive care services.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Extra care housing provides a vital stepping stone for individuals who may otherwise require residential care, promoting dignity and autonomy.
• Key Decision: The approval of the land swap and delegation of authority to finalise the transaction.

You can find more details in the Cabinet Member for Property, Waste and Infrastructure Decisions meeting agenda.

Sale of Three Residential Properties

The sale of three residential properties – 24 St. Martin's Close, East Horsley; Collingcourt, Epsom; and 8 Tannery Lane, Bramley – was also approved. These properties were previously managed by Halsey Garton Residential Ltd (HGR) under a headlease agreement and are now being sold on the open market. This decision aligns with the council's objective to streamline its property holdings and generate capital. The sales are conditional on HGR simultaneously surrendering its headlease, an agreement that has been reached with the HGR Board. The council will accept the surrender and approve premiums for HGR's interest from the gross receipts.

• Properties Approved for Sale:

  • 24 St. Martin's Close, East Horsley, Leatherhead, KT24 6SU: A three-bedroom end-of-terrace house with an adjoining plot of land, marketed with a guide price of £550,000.
  • Collingcourt, Northloo, Reigate Road, Epsom, KT17 3DL: A three-bedroom detached house, marketed with an asking price of £625,000.
  • 8 Tannery Lane, Gosden Common, Bramley, GU5 0AD: A three-bedroom terraced house, described as a Grade II listed period home, marketed with a guide price of £600,000.

• Why it Matters: Selling surplus properties helps the council manage its assets more efficiently and can generate funds that can be reinvested into public services.

• Impact: While these are individual property sales, they contribute to the council's overall financial strategy.

Council Approves Deregistration of Common Land for Water Treatment Works Upgrade

The Planning and Regulatory Committee met on Wednesday, May 27th, and unanimously approved an application by Thames Water Utilities Limited to deregister a small parcel of common land at Mousehill Water Treatment Works in Milford, Godalming. This decision will allow for essential upgrades to the water infrastructure, ensuring a more resilient water supply for residents.

Deregistration of Common Land for Essential Infrastructure

The application, made under the Commons Act 2006, sought to remove a parcel of land from the common land register. The land in question is functionally linked to the Mousehill Water Treatment Works, containing underground apparatus and access points vital for its operation. Evidence presented to the committee, including historical photographs and planning records, demonstrated that the land formed part of the curtilage¹ of the water treatment works building in 1968 and has remained so continuously.

Concerns were initially raised by the Open Spaces Society and the British Horse Society regarding the inclusion of an access road. However, Thames Water amended their application to exclude a section of the access road, satisfying the Open Spaces Society. The British Horse Society's remaining objections were not deemed to have a legal basis.

• What's Happening: A small parcel of common land will be deregistered to allow for water infrastructure upgrades.
• Why it Matters: This decision directly impacts the reliability and resilience of the water supply for residents served by the Mousehill Water Treatment Works. Essential upgrades can proceed without delay.
• Impact on Residents: Ensures continued access to clean water and supports the maintenance of critical infrastructure.
• Key Decision: Unanimous approval to grant the application, amending the register of common land.

You can find more details in the Planning and Regulatory Committee meeting agenda.

Authority Monitoring Report 2024 Noted

The committee also noted the content of the Authority Monitoring Report 2024. This report details the progress of the Minerals and Waste Local Plan, the effectiveness of existing policies, and the performance of the Development Management Service. Key findings included:

• Development Management Performance: 82.3% of major decisions were determined within the target timeframe.
• Minerals: Sales of sharp sand and gravel were slightly below the 10-year average, but the landbank for sand and gravel exceeds the national policy requirement.
• Waste: Surrey produced 3.68 million tonnes of waste in 2024, with community recycling centres achieving a reuse and recycling rate of 53% and an 88% diversion from landfill rate.

Council Allocates £1.4 Million for Specialist School Places for Autistic Pupils

The Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning Decisions met on Tuesday, May 26th, to approve the allocation of £1.4 million to create 24 specialist school places for autistic pupils at St. Andrew's Church of England Primary School in Cobham. This significant investment is part of the council's commitment to providing local, high-quality education for children with additional needs. The meeting also addressed concerns raised by a member of the public regarding the council's SEND services.

New Specialist Places for Autistic Pupils

The funding will establish a satellite provision for Pond Meadow Specialist School at St. Andrew's Church of England Primary School. This will create 24 permanent specialist places for autistic pupils and those with communication and interaction needs, aged four to 11. This initiative aligns with the Surrey Inclusion and Additional Needs Partnership Strategy 2023-2026, aiming to improve outcomes for children with additional needs and disabilities. By providing these places closer to home, the council aims to reduce reliance on out-of-county or independent school placements, which can be more costly and disruptive for families.

• What's Happening: £1.4 million allocated to create 24 specialist school places for autistic pupils.
• Why it Matters: This directly addresses the growing demand for specialist SEND provision within Surrey, ensuring local children can receive education tailored to their needs without the disruption of long-distance travel.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Provides crucial support for autistic children and their families, offering them access to specialised education within their local community.
• Key Decision: Approval of the funding allocation for the satellite provision.

You can find more details in the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Lifelong Learning Decisions meeting agenda.

Concerns Raised About SEND Services

A question was raised by a member of the public, Lisa Stevens, concerning serious issues within Surrey County Council's SEND services. These included alleged failures to follow internal complaint procedures, missed occupational therapy timelines, a lack of response to formal Section 19 requests for alternative provision, and non-compliance with SEND tribunal directions. The response provided acknowledged the council's commitment to its complaints policy and outlined measures being taken to address issues related to occupational therapy, Section 19 requests, and tribunal directions. These measures include joint consideration with health commissioners, review of requests, and a planned audit of alternative provision. The council also highlighted ongoing scrutiny of SEND services through select committees, the Department for Education, and Ofsted inspections.

Road Safety Improvements Approved for Headley and Hickley's Corner

The Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth Decisions met on Tuesday, May 26th, to address several petitions concerning road safety. Decisions were made to reinstate centre white lines on roads in Headley and to reduce the speed limit at Hickley's Corner, aiming to improve safety for all road users.

Reinstating Centre White Lines in Headley

Following a petition from Jan Schapira, centre white lines will be reinstated on Headley Road, Tilley Lane/Headley Road, and Church Lane in Headley. This decision comes after an analysis of collision data revealed an increase in incidents. While the council had previously removed these lines based on guidance for rural roads, the recent rise in accidents prompted a review, acknowledging that their reinstatement is necessary to remove any doubt about their contribution to safety.

Making Hickley's Corner Safer

A petition signed by 1,607 residents calling for improved safety at Hickley's Corner led to a decision to reduce the speed limit to 40 mph in both directions. Currently, the speed limit varies between 40 mph and 50 mph. The council will also seek funding for red light violation cameras, which could also be used for speed enforcement. Tara Smyth, who submitted the petition, highlighted three tragic accidents at the junction in four months, including one fatality, and argued that lower speeds would have mitigated the severity of these incidents. Street lighting at the junction will also be increased, and traffic signal settings will be reassessed to better accommodate pedestrians.

Further Investigation into Church Lane Improvements

A petition requesting road and pavement improvements on Church Lane, Headley, will see the location added to the agenda for the next Road Safety Working Group meeting. Data on personal injury collisions in the area will be collected to identify any patterns. While no immediate decision was made on specific improvements, the council acknowledged the hazardous nature of the road due to its narrowness, geometry, junctions, and the presence of pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. The council is also exploring the viability of 20 mph schemes in villages, with Headley being considered for future implementation.

• What's Happening: Decisions made to reinstate road markings and reduce speed limits to improve road safety.
• Why it Matters: These measures directly impact the safety of residents, particularly in areas with a history of accidents or where vulnerable road users are present.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Reduced speed limits and improved visibility can significantly lower the risk of accidents for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.
• Key Decisions: Reinstatement of white lines in Headley, speed limit reduction at Hickley's Corner, and further investigation into Church Lane improvements.

You can find more details in the Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth Decisions meeting agenda.

Council Approves Financial Outturn and Notes Progress on Local Government Reorganisation

The Surrey County Council Cabinet met on Tuesday, May 26th, to review the council's financial performance for the past year and receive updates on the significant Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) programme. Key decisions included approving the financial outturn, which showed a modest underspend, and noting the progress made in preparing for the transition to two new unitary authorities.

Strong Financial Outturn for 2025/26

The Cabinet reviewed the council's financial performance for the 2025/26 municipal year, noting an overall underspend of £1.2 million against the revenue budget. This positive outcome was attributed to effective cost management and the achievement of targeted efficiencies. The Cabinet approved the transfer of this surplus to the Budget Equalisation Reserve. On the capital front, expenditure was £307.5 million against a budget of £296.8 million, with £7.1 million approved for carry-forward into the 2026/27 capital programme. The Your Fund Surrey scheme, which has allocated £7.3 million in the last financial year, is now fully committed for delivery in the current year, marking its closure.

• What's Happening: The council's financial outturn for 2025/26 was reviewed and approved.
• Why it Matters: A sound financial position is crucial for the council's ability to continue delivering services, especially as it prepares for reorganisation. A balanced budget and prudent management of reserves provide stability.
• Impact on Services: A positive financial outturn means resources are available to meet current needs and to support the transition to new authorities without immediate service cuts due to financial shortfalls.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Update

The meeting provided an update on the ongoing LGR programme, which aims to establish East Surrey and West Surrey as two new unitary councils by April 2027. The Cabinet noted the finalisation of the Implementation Plan, which outlines the transition of services, staff, and assets. Key points included the role of elected shadow councillors in preparing the new councils and the continuation of Surrey County Council services until Vesting Day. The Expression of Interest for a Foundation Strategic Authority in Surrey was also mentioned, a step towards potential mayoral devolution.

• What's Happening: Updates on the LGR programme, including the finalisation of the Implementation Plan.
• Why it Matters: This reorganisation will fundamentally change how local government operates in Surrey. A well-managed transition is essential to ensure continuity of services for all residents, particularly those who rely heavily on council support.
• Impact on Residents: While the immediate impact is on council operations, the long-term effects will be felt in the delivery and accessibility of local services.

Property Disposals Approved

The Cabinet also approved the disposal of several council-owned properties, including land at West Park and Palmers Farm in Lingfield, land at Callow Hill in Virginia Water, and the former Beechcroft Nursery in Ewell. These disposals are part of the council's strategy to manage its property assets effectively.

• What's Happening: Approval for the sale of multiple council-owned properties.
• Why it Matters: This is part of the council's asset management strategy, aiming to dispose of surplus land and buildings to generate capital receipts and reduce maintenance costs.

Cabinet Member of the Month: Mark Nuti

Councillor Mark Nuti, Cabinet Member for Health and Communities, presented his final Cabinet Member of the Month report, reflecting on his portfolio's achievements. He highlighted significant investments in Surrey's libraries, the success of Your Fund Surrey, and the work of the public health team. He announced the launch of the final Your Fund Surrey Councillor Community Fund, providing £10,000 per member for community projects.

• What's Happening: A review of achievements in the Health and Communities portfolio.
• Why it Matters: Showcases the impact of council initiatives on community well-being and local projects.

You can find more details in the Cabinet meeting agenda.

This week in Surrey:

Council Gears Up for Local Government Reorganisation: Key Decisions Made at Annual Meeting

Surrey County Council held its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, May 19th, marking the final term of the council before its reorganisation into two unitary authorities. The meeting saw the election of new chairs and vice-chairs, and crucially, addressed the significant financial challenges ahead, particularly concerning the debt inherited by the new West Surrey Council.

New Leadership and Financial Realities

Councillor Tim Hall was elected Chair of Surrey County Council, with Councillor Bernie Muir re-elected as Vice-Chair. The meeting also heard from Leader Tim Oliver OBE, who acknowledged the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and the transition to the new East and West Surrey councils. While Mr. Oliver highlighted the council's strong financial position with a balanced budget, he also addressed concerns about the Woking debt, stating that £500 million in government support had been secured to reduce it. He stressed that this debt would not directly impact West Surrey taxpayers through rate increases or reduced services.

However, Councillor Paul Follows, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, voiced significant concerns about the distribution of debt, noting that West Surrey is set to inherit a net debt of £3.8 billion, with debt servicing costs estimated at 40% of the revenue budget. This stark figure underscores the financial tightrope the new authorities will walk, potentially impacting the level and quality of services available to residents, especially those most in need.

• What's Happening: Surrey County Council held its Annual General Meeting, electing new chairs and discussing the impending reorganisation.
• Why it Matters: This meeting sets the tone for the council's final year and highlights the significant financial challenges facing the new unitary authorities, which will directly affect service delivery.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: The inherited debt burden could strain resources for essential services like adult social care and support for children with special educational needs.
• Key Concern: The substantial debt inherited by West Surrey Council, raising questions about future service provision and financial stability.

You can find more details in the Council meeting agenda.

Support for Schools and Community Assets

Amidst the LGR discussions, the council also approved essential capital funding for school refurbishments. This included roof replacements at Pond Meadow School, which caters to children with special educational needs, and The Winston Churchill School, alongside extensive refurbishment works at Oakwood Secondary School. These decisions demonstrate a commitment to maintaining safe and functional learning environments, even as the council undergoes significant structural change.

Furthermore, a new Community Asset Transfer (CAT) Policy was approved. This policy aims to transfer council assets to community organisations, fostering local engagement and ensuring that underused spaces can be utilised for public benefit. This could lead to new community-led initiatives and services, particularly benefiting local neighbourhoods.

• School Funding: Capital funding approved for roof replacements and refurbishments at three schools.
• Community Assets: A new policy to transfer council assets to community organisations was adopted.

Addressing SEND Concerns and Road Safety

During Members' Question Time, concerns were raised about the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) system. Questions focused on delays in implementing new email systems and the potential closure of Woodstock House School, which could leave 60 children without places. Cabinet Member Helyn Clack assured members that efforts were underway to find alternative provision if the school closes, highlighting the council's responsibility to ensure continuity of education for these vulnerable children.

Road safety was also a prominent topic, with discussions on pothole repairs, overgrown vegetation impacting walking routes, and the persistent issue of flags on street furniture. While a county-wide removal programme for flags is in place, the continued presence in some areas, like Redhill, drew criticism for potentially creating division and intimidation.

• SEND Services: Concerns raised about delays and potential school closures impacting children with special needs.
• Road Safety: Discussions on pothole repairs, vegetation management, and the controversial issue of flags on street furniture.

Other Matters

The council also adopted an Annual Review of Political Proportionality, ensuring committee seats reflect the council's political composition. Members were appointed to various committees and boards for the upcoming civic year.

This week in Surrey:

Trading Standards Secures Budget Amidst Growing Demands and Evolving Threats

The Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee met on Monday, May 11th, to approve the budget for the upcoming financial year and the Official Food Standards and Feed Control Service Plan. While the committee noted an underspend in the previous year's budget, the discussions highlighted the increasing demands placed on the service and the evolving landscape of consumer protection, particularly concerning vulnerable groups.

Budget Approved, But Future Expectations Loom Large

The committee approved a budget of £2.9 million for 2026/27, which includes provisions for pay inflation and cost savings. This budget is split between Buckinghamshire Council (34%) and Surrey County Council (66%). While the previous year saw an underspend of £266,226, largely due to unexpected income and salary savings, the approved budget for the coming year acknowledges the need for continued resources.

However, a significant point of discussion was the Official Food Standards and Feed Control Service Plan 2026-2027. This plan, a statutory requirement from the Food Standards Agency (FSA), outlines how the service will enforce food standards. It reflects an increase of 1.2 Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs)¹ to help deliver high-risk and priority food interventions. Despite this increase, it was acknowledged that this will not fully meet the FSA's enhanced expectations for 2029, which are anticipated to require substantial additional resources.

Councillor Kevin Deanus, Cabinet Member for Fire and Rescue, and Resilience, highlighted the financial pressures facing local government, noting that in Surrey we're looking at for three years we will be about 180 million pound down. So, you know, something has to give. This financial reality underscores the challenge of meeting ever-increasing regulatory demands.

The service is developing an action plan to address these future expectations, which includes strategies like reducing the sampling plan and using questionnaires for lower-risk premises. Representations are being made to the FSA regarding these resourcing challenges, with potential lobbying through MPs and the Association of Chief Trading Standards Officers (ACTSO).

• What's Happening: The Joint Trading Standards Service Committee approved the budget for 2026/27 and the Official Food Standards and Feed Control Service Plan.
• Why it Matters: This ensures the continued operation of a vital service that protects residents from unsafe food, illegal goods, and fraudulent practices. The plan's limitations highlight potential future gaps in food safety enforcement.
• Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Trading Standards plays a crucial role in protecting vulnerable individuals from scams and rogue traders. The increasing demands and potential resource gaps could impact their ability to provide this essential support.
• Key Concern: The FSA's future expectations for food standards enforcement significantly outstrip current resourcing capabilities, raising concerns about long-term food safety.

You can find more details in the Buckinghamshire Council and Surrey County Council Joint Trading Standards Service Committee meeting agenda.

Performance Review and KPI Changes

The committee also reviewed the 2025/26 performance report. While the financial impact of scam interventions with vulnerable people decreased to £2.3 million, partly due to telecoms providers offering free call blocking services, the estimated financial impact of disruptive activities remained consistent at £2.4 million.

Several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were adjusted for 2026/27 onwards:

• The KPI for the financial impact of scam interventions with vulnerable people will be removed due to the widespread availability of free call blocking services.
• The KPI for the number of vulnerable residents supported will also be removed, as other organisations, such as Surrey Police, are now taking a greater role.
• The KPI for engagement with webinars and YouTube content will be removed due to difficulties in obtaining consistent values.
• A new KPI, Income from business advice and support activities, will be introduced to better reflect the service's activity.

The committee agreed to retain KPIs related to premises tested for selling age-restricted products, illegal goods seized, and the percentage of food businesses improving their compliance scores.

Enforcement Policy and Tobacco Work

An amended Trading Standards Enforcement Policy was agreed, which includes updated information on civil penalties under the Renters' Rights Act 2025. The policy reiterates the service's commitment to fair, risk-based, and proportionate enforcement.

The committee also noted the service's work in relation to tobacco and vapes. In 2025/26, 40,757 cigarettes, 9.6 kg of hand-rolling tobacco, and 16,595 vapes were seized. Underage test purchases saw sales occur in 11% of attempts. The service issued one conviction for the supply of illegal tobacco, resulting in a £429 fine. Significant resources were focused on enforcing the ban on single-use vapes, with 8,700 vapes seized and seven Fixed Monetary Penalties issued. Public engagement activities, including those involving tobacco detection dogs, were conducted in both Buckinghamshire and Surrey.

Local Government Reorganisation: Shadow Authorities Prepare for Formation

The West Surrey Joint Committee and the East Surrey Joint Committee met on Monday, May 11th, to discuss the crucial implementation plans and governance structures for the upcoming transition to two new unitary authorities. While these meetings were primarily procedural, they lay the groundwork for a significant shift in local governance that will impact all residents.

Implementation Plan and Shadow Authority Constitutions

Both committees reviewed the final draft of a single Implementation Plan, designed to guide a safe and legal transition from the current two-tier local government structure to the new West Surrey and East Surrey unitary authorities. If endorsed, these plans will be presented to the respective Shadow Authorities for recommendation and adoption. The reports also provided updates on risk and budget monitoring, highlighting the ongoing financial challenges that the new authorities will face.

Discussions also included the proposed constitutions for the West Surrey Shadow Authority and the East Surrey Shadow Authority. These documents will govern the operations of the shadow authorities from May 2026 until March 2027, preceding the formal establishment of the new councils. The constitutions detail the mandatory governance arrangements required for this transitional period.

Interim Statutory Officers and Member Allowances

The committees were also asked to endorse recommendations for the designation of named interim statutory officers for the shadow period. These officers are crucial for the legal and effective operation of the shadow authorities. Additionally, reports on the scheme of member allowances were presented, outlining how councillors will be remunerated during the shadow period and in preparation for the new councils.

• What's Happening: Joint committees reviewed implementation plans and proposed constitutions for the new unitary authorities.
• Why it Matters: This reorganisation directly impacts the services residents receive and the way local government operates. A well-managed transition is crucial for continuity and stability, especially for vulnerable groups.
• Key Focus: Establishing the governance and operational frameworks for the new authorities during the critical shadow period.

You can find more details in the West Surrey Joint Committee meeting agenda and the East Surrey Joint Committee meeting agenda.