Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) launched a Community Governance Review (CGR) in July 2025 to examine how local communities are represented and whether changes to parish (town) governance are needed. Following the stage one consultation - where residents and stakeholders were asked for feedback on local representation and whether any changes to governance were wanted - councillors have decided to bring forward the start of stage two consultation, due to Local Government Reorganisation (LGR).
The second stage of the public consultation began today (on Friday 23 January). Residents and key stakeholders in the areas under review have until Friday 20 February to cast their vote and have their say on the proposed options.
The draft proposals, based on responses received during stage one consultation, include:
Exploring the creation of seven new parish councils in Ashtead, Box Hill, Dorking, Fetcham, Leatherhead, Westcott, and Westhumble
Amending boundaries for the parishes of Brockham, Headley, and Holmwood
No changes proposed to the remaining areas of Mole Valley.
All residents will receive direct communication about the draft recommendations in the coming weeks. Postal ballot packs will be sent to all households where a change is being proposed. These will include a set of frequently asked questions to support residents in responding and making informed decisions about the future of their local area.
The final decision on the recommendations will be made by Full Council in early March 2026.
Councillor Claire Malcomson, Deputy Leader for MVDC, said: “When thinking about parish areas, some people still confuse this with the church. We’re hoping the information packs being sent directly to residents and stakeholders - as well as the information on our website and other communication channels - will help explain what parish councils do and what they can deliver for local communities.
It will then be for residents and stakeholders to decide whether establishing a new parish council would benefit areas that do not currently have one, or whether they would support boundary changes to existing parishes to ensure communities are better heard and represented.
“Parish councils can, for example, provide a community voice on grassroots issues such as being a statutory consultee on planning matters, managing neighbourhood services like allotments, parks and play areas, helping improve quality of life in the area, and representing local communities in democratic decisions. You can find out more on the National Association of Local Councils website.
“Residents should note that if a new parish council is created in their area, an additional charge will be added to their council tax. Typically, this will be between £20 and £80 for a Band D property in the first year and will depend on the level of services the local council will take on. You can find more information about the CGR at molevalley.gov.uk/CGR. If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at cgr@molevalley.gov.uk or call 01306 879198."