The East Surrey Shadow Authority met on Thursday 24 September 2026, discussing the council's strategy, the local government reorganisation implementation programme, and various employment and constitutional matters. Key decisions included the adoption of the East Surrey Council Strategy 2027-2032, noting progress on the implementation plan, and approving new employment policies and amendments to the constitution. A motion to declare a climate emergency was defeated.

East Surrey Council Strategy 2027-2032

The Authority approved and adopted the East Surrey Council Strategy 2027-2032. This strategy outlines the council's vision for an inclusive East Surrey where people are heard and supported, communities are strong, proud of their local areas and where growth is sustainable. It is built around three key priorities: People (focusing on early support and opportunities), Place (improving local areas, housing, economy, and climate action), and Council (ensuring accessible services, responsible financial management, and open reporting). The strategy will guide the council's decisions and actions over the next five years, with annual reviews to ensure its continued relevance.

Local Government Reorganisation Implementation Programme Progress Update

The Authority noted the progress made on the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) Implementation Plan, which is currently in its Transition Phase. The programme remains assessed as amber overall, reflecting its complexity and interdependencies, but good progress has been made against critical milestones. The Authority also noted the establishment of the Joint Political Leadership Transition Group and its terms of reference. The Implementation Fund has £37.1m available, with £32.558m committed to date, and ongoing monitoring and risk management are in place.

Employment Policies and Procedures

The Authority approved the adoption of several key HR policies and procedures, including those for Disciplinary, Grievance, Sickness Absence, Capability, and Bullying and Anti-Harassment. These policies, developed with input from HR consultants, trade unions, and staff representatives, aim to ensure legal compliance, fairness, and consistency across the new East Surrey Council. They will initially apply to new staff from Vesting Day on 1 April 2027, with potential application to transferring staff subject to TUPE measures and consultation. The Authority also approved the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS) Discretions Policies, which will take effect from Vesting Day to ensure compliance with pension legislation.

Constitutional Amendments

The Authority approved a proposed amendment to the Employment Committee's terms of reference, changing its responsibility from recommending to the Shadow Authority to approving employment policies, terms, and conditions. This aims to streamline decision-making and align with the committee's designated responsibilities. Additionally, the Authority approved an amendment to the Procedure Rules to ensure that all first questions submitted by councillors are taken before any second or subsequent questions from the same member, promoting broader participation.

Climate Emergency Motion Defeated

A motion to declare a Climate Emergency in East Surrey and recommit to net-zero targets by 2030 for the council's own emissions and by 2050 for the wider area was defeated. The motion also proposed establishing a cross-party working group to review existing climate actions. While many councillors acknowledged the urgency of climate change, the motion was opposed by a significant majority, with arguments citing the lack of detailed costing, the challenging financial environment, and the need for more realistic and evidence-led targets. A counter-motion regarding residual legal and operational issues for East Surrey in the Local Government Reorganisation process was also defeated.

Appointments and Other Matters

The Authority approved the appointment of Belinda Knight and Murray Litvak as additional Independent Persons to the East and West Surrey Shadow Authorities until 31 March 2027, along with their annual allowances and travel expenses. The Authority also noted announcements from the Chair and Leader regarding civic functions, the ongoing local government reorganisation, and the importance of resident engagement through surveys.

The next meeting of the East Surrey Shadow Authority was scheduled for Wednesday, 18 November 2026.