Guildford could have town council for first time

Residents will be asked for their thoughts on the plan but it will ultimately be for Guildford Borough Council to decide

Guildford could soon have its own town council for the first time.

Unlike other areas, the Surrey town relies solely on borough councillors to raise "hyperlocal" issues, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports.

The new council could oversee things like town events, public toilets, community grants and local planning consultations.

If agreed, Guildford Town Council would be funded through an increase in council tax for those living under its authority.

Roughly £300,000 could be spent in the first year to set up the town council, which would be funded by Guildford Borough Council.

Boundaries, the number of councillors and a budget would likely be determined through a public consultation.

The proposed town council would likely include wards such as Onslow, Stoke, Holy Trinity and Westborough.

Residents will be asked whether they want the new council through what is known as a community governance review, but ultimately, Guildford Borough Council would have the final say on whether to establish the new body.