The public consultation, which included direct communications to all households in Mole Valley, sought views from residents and key stakeholders on the draft proposals. These proposals were based on responses received during the stage one consultation and included:

• 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

• Keeping the remaining areas in Mole Valley unchanged

Following the results of the consultative ballot and written representations received in the areas where a change was proposed, the following options have been confirmed for final Council approval:

• Creation of three new parish councils in:

– Dorking

– Box Hill

– Westcott

• Changes to parish boundaries in:

– Headley

– Brockham

The rest of the areas in Mole Valley remain unchanged.

Councillor Claire Malcomson, Deputy Leader for MVDC, said: “Every household in Mole Valley has been given the opportunity to share their views on this important matter, and I’m pleased that so many people took part. Their engagement has been invaluable in helping us shape the future of how their communities are represented. The changes proposed for certain areas are based on the majority of people who voted supporting these recommendations. I very much hope that the changes will bring positive implications for Mole Valley and our communities.

Council will be asked at its meeting to approve the recommendations, as well as the reorganisation orders allowing the creation of new parish councils from 1 April 2027, with parish elections planned for May 2027.

It is also worth noting, that parish councils have the option to request changing their status to town councils too and can appoint a mayor, but this process is separate to the CGR.

I would like to thank our residents for taking part in this pivotal consultation and sharing their views, and MVDC staff and Members for making it happen so quickly in order to deliver this project before the Local Government Reorganisation. You can find more information about the CGR on molevalley.gov.uk/cgr, and the full Council report with recommendations can be viewed here."

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An update will be provided by the Ashtead Residents' Association after analysis of the Council's report. Results published with the report show that there was a 24.74% response from Ashtead residents with 1562 (56.85%) opposing the proposal and 1235 (44.15%) in support.