Surrey County Council publish 2026/27 draft budget 

Surrey County Council has launched its draft budget consultation for 2026/27 and is inviting residents to share their views on the proposals. 

Every year, the council sets a budget to plan how money will be spent on essential services across Surrey. These services include helping people live independently, supporting children and families, protecting residents and businesses, and caring for Surrey’s environment and highways. 

This year’s budget is particularly challenging. The government’s Fair Funding Review means Surrey will receive less funding from central government and will be expected to rely more on local sources of income. Combined with rising costs and growing demand for services, this creates significant financial pressures. At present, there is a provisional budget gap of £21.3 million for 2026/27. 

As local authorities across the country have faced unprecedented pressure in recent years, Surrey County Council’s strong financial management has meant that the council has repeatedly set balanced budgets, giving it the foundations to manage the upcoming challenges. 

Tim Oliver, Leader of Surrey County Council, said: “Surrey is facing one of the most challenging financial periods in its history. The Fair Funding Review means less government support for areas like ours, and that has a direct impact on the services we provide.  

“Our priority is clear: to protect the services that matter most – care for vulnerable adults, support for children and families, and the infrastructure that keeps Surrey moving. These are the services that underpin daily life and wellbeing in our communities.  

“As this is the last budget before we transition to two new unitary councils in April 2027, we are focused on building a financially stable foundation for East Surrey Council and West Surrey Council, while continuing to deliver for residents today. 

“We will keep innovating and finding efficiencies, and hearing your views will help us understand what matters most to you as we make these difficult decisions.” 

David Lewis, Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources, added: “Surrey is a great place to live, and we want to make sure it remains so for everyone. Less money from central government along with rising costs mean we must plan even more carefully to ensure support reaches those who need it most.  

“Services like adult social care, children’s services, and support for those with special educational needs are at the heart of what we do, and they account for the majority of our budget.  At the same time, we know residents value visible services like road maintenance, libraries, and community spaces.  

“Please take a moment to share your thoughts with us – your views will help us make sure these services are delivered in the best way possible.” 

This draft budget consultation will inform the development of the final budget report, due to be published in January 2026 and agreed by Full Council in February 2026. 

Residents can view the draft budget and share their views online. The consultation will remain open until 11.59pm on Sunday 4 January 2026.