Urgent – Why Now?
- In April 2027, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council will be abolished.
- Kingswood will fall under a new East Surrey Unitary Authority covering a much larger area.
- This risks local communities like ours being overlooked.
What’s being proposed
- RBBC is consulting on new local councils to ensure communities keep a strong voice once RBBC are abolished.
- The Kingswood Residents Association preferred option is a Banstead & Villages Parish Council, covering the villages north of the borough (including Kingswood). Please click here for the proposed map.
- This would represent around 40,000 residents — large enough to be taken seriously.
Why this matters for Kingswood
- Kingswood, on its own, would have limited influence.
- Funded by a modest Council Tax increase that stays local. Estimates between £35-£55 per annum per household (Band D), dependent on services.
A larger Banstead & Villages Parish Council could:
- Protect local services, commons and facilities.
- Represent Kingswood on planning and development, and Greenbelt issues.
- Access local government funding and investment.
Have your say here:
Consultation deadline: 16 January 2026
Community Governance Review – Have Your Say
Email from The Leader of RBBC –
https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17FDrvCSAH/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Caroline
Chair
Kingswood Residents Association