The Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee met on Thursday, 2 July 2026. The committee reviewed performance assurance reports and service updates. Key discussions included the Q3 and Q4 2025/26 performance assurance report, with a recommendation to encourage the sharing of improvement plans with shadow authorities. The committee also discussed the Local Transport Delivery Plan for 2026-2030.

Performance Assurance Review

The committee considered Surrey County Council's performance for Quarter 3 and Quarter 4 of the 2025/26 financial year. The report indicated that the majority of performance indicators were on target. However, specific areas identified for concern included customer service response times, the timeliness of death registrations, and the delivery of the footway resurfacing programme.

Concerns were raised regarding discrepancies in pothole repair performance between East and West Surrey, particularly in rural southern districts. It was acknowledged that severe weather had impacted rural areas, and a review of response strategies was underway.

Regarding death registrations, questions were raised about falling behind the 95% target for registrations within five days. Explanations included delays in receiving medical certification and families' readiness to register. The upcoming legislation allowing remote registration of deaths was noted as a potential solution.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service Performance

An update was provided on the performance of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). Following a 2023 HMICFRS inspection, a cause of concern was discharged, and all areas for improvement were being addressed. A more recent HMICFRS inspection resulted in six areas graded as 'good' and four as 'adequate', with no causes of concern identified.

Concerns were raised about the closure of Banstead Fire Station and the relocation of resources, with questions about the impact on service delivery in Epsom. The response indicated confidence in the relocation plan, based on operational modelling and risk assessments, and assured that resources could be dynamically deployed across the county. Concerns were also expressed about the fire service's capacity in light of climate change and increasing housing development, advocating for resources to be above and beyond requirements.

Local Transport Delivery Plan

The Local Transport Delivery Plan for 2026-2029/30 was introduced, outlining investment across highways, buses, active travel, and EV infrastructure. A key discussion point was balancing road maintenance with wider transport improvements, with a mixed capital investment approach proposed for £33 million of Local Transport Grant funding.

The realism of the 95% target for Integrated Transport Scheme (ITS) delivery was questioned, given the need for community consultation and redesign. The challenging nature of the target was acknowledged, with suggestions that future unitary authorities might revisit targets and engagement approaches.

Concerns were also raised about financial risks within the plan, particularly inflation and unforeseen costs. Assurance was sought on the management of these risks and the adequacy of controls. The response indicated that budgets included inflation uplifts and a buffer for quantified risks, with oversight from the PMO and Infrastructure Panel.

Registration and Nationality Service Update

An update was provided on the new service delivery model for the Registration and Nationality Service. Progress was described as positive, highlighting improvements in customer access, operational efficiency, and the generation of additional commercial income. Phase 1 of the programme, including expanding service locations, was reported as successfully completed. Phase 2 is underway, focusing on expanding sites and enhancing provision.

Inquiries were made about plans for areas not yet receiving new services, and whether local town council buildings were considered. Officers confirmed there was no evidence of a lesser service in those areas and that residents could access alternative offices. They stated they would check if specific town council buildings were included in site assessments.

Other Matters

The committee noted the Q3 and Q4 2025/26 Performance Assurance Report and the recommendations and action tracker. The report on the Local Government Reorganisation transition progress was also discussed, with assurances given about the safe and legal handover of services to the new East and West Surrey councils.

The meeting concluded with a short comfort break before moving to the next agenda item.