Asset Sales Will Reduce, But Not Solve, Woking’s Debt Problem, Says Council Leader

Published on: 24 Dec, 2025
Updated on: 24 Dec, 2025

Surrey is to be divided into two unitary authorities. SHBC

By Chris Caulfield

local democracy reporter

Next year will be the final full year for Surrey councils before they are dissolved and merged as part of Local Government Reorganisation.

It means council leaders are running out of time to fulfil any lasting ambitions.

Those living in Guildford, Waverley, Woking, Surrey Heath, Spelthorne and Runnymede will soon be calling West Surrey home.

Epsom and Ewell, Elmbridge, Tandridge, Reigate and Banstead, and Mole Valley residents will come under East Surrey.

The larger West Surrey will have its share of financial challenges given the debt issues in Woking, Surrey Heath, and Spelthorne.

In May, voters will elect new shadow councils that will run parallel before taking over in 2027.

The Local Democracy Service asked council bosses what they hoped to achieve before this huge change happens.

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker

Ann-Marie Barker Lib Dem, Goldsworth Park), leader of Woking Borough Council, said: “Woking Council’s final year focus will be to complete the move from a pseudo bank and property developer to a council that delivers for our area.

“I am determined to hand over a fully functioning council to the new West Surrey unitary in April 2027.

“In 2026, Woking will continue a programme of asset disposal, selling commercial property and land acquired by the previous administration.

“These sales will help to reduce, but never pay off, Woking’s £2.1 billion debt burden.

“But, along with the £500 million secured from government, they will reduce the borrowing.

“Once it is clear how much can be achieved from asset sales we expect further debt relief from government.

“Whilst selling commercial assets I am committed to protect our local community facilities.

“We have successfully transferred St Mary’s at Byfleet to Regenerate Rise and the Vyne in Knaphill to Dramatize.

“Both are running fantastic community facilities.

“Our remaining community centres are seeking similarly community-focused groups to run them in 2026.

“Homes for everyone is at the heart of what a council should be delivering.

“This year we have put millions of our council tenant’s money back into their housing account.

“We are investing in the maintenance of council properties.

“We secured money from the Government to complete homes in the Sheerwater scheme and are selling the land we have been unable to develop to a housebuilder who will provide the intended mix of market price and affordable homes.

“Work will continue on the new Local Plan, defining what should be built, where and when and what needs to be protected. This goes on into the new unitary to define a planning strategy for Woking.

“As democracy moves further from local people, residents in Pyrford have supported setting up a parish council for their area.

“In 2026 I am looking to ask the rest of the borough if they would like to set up the same level of local representation.

“As we move to a new council, I will keep everyone locally informed on what is happening and how it will affect them whether they are a resident, business or have a role in the charity or voluntary sector.”