Conservatives Want Stronger Cross-party Scrutiny at New West Surrey Shadow Council

Published on: 23 May, 2026
Updated on: 28 May, 2026

West Surrey Council Conservative Group, May 21 2026

West Surrey Conservatives  have pledged to provide “constructive but robust opposition” following the inaugural meeting of the new West Surrey Shadow Authority held on Thursday (May 21) at Millmead Council Offices in Guildford.

At the meeting, Conservative councillors supported the adoption of the interim constitution required to allow the new council to operate effectively ahead of vesting day in April 2027 .

But they called for stronger cross-party scrutiny arrangements and greater democratic balance within the authority’s governance structures.

Conservative councillors also confirmed they will seek future amendments to strengthen the voice of residents, including introducing rights for the public to submit petitions and ask questions at council meetings.

Conservative councillors also raised concerns about the Liberal Democrat administration appointing its own members to key scrutiny positions, warning that this risks creating the perception that the administration is “marking its own homework” at a time when independent oversight and transparency are essential.

Cllr Jane Austin

Cllr Jane Austin (Waverley Eastern Villages), Leader of the West Surrey Conservative Group, congratulated the newly appointed Chair, Vice-Chair and administration, while stressing the importance of accountability and transparency throughout the transition period.

After the meeting, Cllr Austin said: “The decisions taken during this shadow period will shape West Surrey Council for years to come — its governance, its culture, its priorities and its financial resilience.

“But I am concerned that, from day one, we are already seeing signs of the administration marking its own homework through some of the scrutiny arrangements being proposed. We need to get this right for our residents.”

“Conservative councillors will work constructively where it is in residents’ interests to do so, but we will also provide robust scrutiny and accountability throughout this transition.”

The Tory councillors also supported the appointment of interim statutory officers and the Local Government Reorganisation Implementation Plan, recognising the significant amount of work already undertaken to prepare for the transition.

Cllr Jonathan Hulley

Deputy Group Leader Cllr Jonathan Hulley (Thorpe, Longcross & Ottershaw) added: “This is a genuinely historic moment for local government in Surrey. But the success of this new authority will depend on collaboration, openness and respect for all parts of West Surrey.

“Now is not the time for political showboating or flexing muscles. Residents expect cool heads, constructive working and a focus on delivering a safe and successful transition.”

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