Epsom & Ewell Borough Council asks residents to have their say on two new community councils

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council is consulting on whether to create two new parish areas served by two community councils, Epsom Community Council and Ewell Community Council. The consultation runs from 16 December 2025 to 1 February 2026. This is the second and final consultation to take place as part of the council’s Community Governance Review (CGR).

Councillor John Beckett, Chair of the Standards and Constitution Committee, said:

“Local government is changing. Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, which has represented and served its residents for almost 90 years, will be dissolved in April 2027. The borough will be served by a new, unitary council responsible for the whole of East Surrey – some 545,798 people. The number of Councillors who represent the residents of Epsom and Ewell will fall by some 75% from 40 Councillors to 10 new unitary Councillors.

“Epsom & Ewell is currently an unparished borough which means there will be no lower tier of local government below that of the new unitary council. New community councils would help support local democracy and ensure that, in the future, residents’ voices are heard by decision-makers in local government.

“The initial idea is to put into place the infrastructure needed to start up the new community councils. The councils would be a statutory consultee on planning matters, would manage the borough’s allotments and could work with East Surrey Council in the future to undertake any services which it is agreed may be better run at a local level, such as parks, open spaces and community buildings etc.”

 

If created, the councils would be funded through an additional council tax charge known as a precept, estimated at £43.52–£46.15 per year for a Band D property. Any future additional services undertaken by the community councils would require additional precept.

The CGR consultation asks:

• whether to create two parishes (Epsom and Ewell) served by two community councils, with the associated precept, and if they should be named Epsom Community Council and Ewell Community Council
• about proposed warding arrangements for the new councils, which is for them to remain the same as for Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, meaning eight wards for Ewell Community Council and six for Epsom Community Council
• whether there is agreement on the proposed number of Councillors, which is two for each ward.

Councillor Beckett continued: “Community councils would provide a platform for residents to exercise greater control over local issues and services. They would be a transparent, accountable elected body – giving communities a stronger voice to the new unitary authority.

Residents – you have a choice, and you have a voice. Make sure you’re heard - respond to the consultation today.”

The consultation can be completed online on the consultation website: Community Governance Review - Epsom and Ewell Borough Council Consultations(link is external) or by completing a paper consultation questionnaire. Paper consultations can be found in Epsom Town Hall, in Bourne Hall, in local libraries across the borough and in the Community & Wellbeing Centre, Longmead (during normal opening hours).

A timeline and frequently asked questions about CGR can be found on the council’s website: www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/CGR. Information about Councillor events, where residents can ask questions about the CGR, community councils, the precept, and more, will be announced on the council’s website and social media.

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council celebrates its first Young Legends graduates!

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council proudly marked the completion of its first Young Legends programme with a celebration event for participants and their families.

Over the last nine weeks, over 80 children aged 9-11 enjoyed a range of sports and creative activities as part of the council’s Health & Wellbeing Strategy, that aims to improve the mental and emotional wellbeing of all residents. The programme supports the strategy by helping children and young people be more active, learn new skills and build connections—key to improving mental and emotional wellbeing.

Children from across the borough took part in Arts & Crafts, Basketball, Girls Rugby, Judo, Musical Theatre and Yoga. The programme was delivered by trusted and skilled coaches from the Body & Brain, Cadgers Basketball Club, Creative Minds, Laines Theatre Arts, Sutton and Epsom Rugby Club, and Westcroft Judo Nork at no cost to the children or their families.

The graduation was a celebration of the programme and included a performance by children who took part in the programme’s Musical Theatre sessions, and an arts and crafts activity. The Council’s Chief Executive, Jackie King, Councillor Clive Woodbridge and Councillor Bernice Froud joined families and coaches at the event.

Hayley, parent of an Epsom & Ewell Young Legends participant said:

“The Young Legends Musical Theatre course gave my son an opportunity to experience performance arts in a way he might not otherwise have had. He discovered a passion for performing and the support and encouragement he received gave him the confidence to overcome any initial fears and showcase an amazing talent we were unaware he had!”

Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community & Wellbeing Committee commented:

“Our Epsom & Ewell Young Legends programme has been a fantastic experience! We focused on children aged 9–11 to support their transition to secondary school, which we know can be a particularly challenging time, and we’re delighted to have been able to give them the chance to take part in a variety of fun activities—helping to build their confidence as they navigate this key stage.

Parents have shared some wonderful feedback. One discovered their child has a real passion for singing, whilst another said yoga sessions have helped improve their child’s emotional wellbeing.

A huge thank you to everyone who made this programme possible: the coaches and practitioners who gave their time, and our dedicated council officers who worked hard to deliver a programme that supports children during this key stage.

We’re proud to have supported local children and hope they feel inspired to keep exploring any opportunity that comes their way ---long after the programme ends.”

Council services over Christmas and the New Year

The majority of our services will operate as normal over the festive period, but there are some changes to take into account, including over bank holidays. Below is information about council service changes during this period.

In emergencies, we can be contacted on 01372 732000 – this service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  

Council services over Christmas and the New Year 2025 | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council

Free car parking in the borough during December

During the Christmas period, you'll be able to park free of charge on certain days in Epsom & Ewell Borough Council-managed car parks. Details below.

• 21 December: EEBC car parks – free all day
• 25 December: EEBC car parks – free all day
• 26 December: Dorset House and Ewell High Street car parks – free all day

Full details about council-managed car parks are available here: Car parks | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council - please note that Hook Road Car Park is closed on Sundays and bank holidays.

Secure your spot on the nice list – shop sustainably this Christmas!

Christmas time is for giving, but unfortunately, it’s also one of the most wasteful times of year. This Christmas, spread kindness and joy to your loved ones and the planet by choosing to shop mindfully.

Here’s how you can give the environment the greatest gift of all:

• Deck the halls with eco-friendly decorations - whether you need to dig your way to the bottom of the very last dusty cardboard box or pop down to your local second-hand shop, resist the splurge on one-use ornaments and give a new life to used decorations.
• Put a wrap on glitter, foil, plastic and batteries – a novelty jingle or a dash of glitter can add an extra festive flare to your gift giving but can also make items unrecyclable. Opt for sustainable wrapping options including recycled paper, reusable fabric and repurposed materials like newspaper or brown paper bags.
• Gift pre-loved presents – Thoughtful gifts don’t have to brand new to be perfect. Ceramics, books, artwork and vintage jewellery are just some items that make for fun and meaningful gifts.

Thankfully, Surrey is home to a variety of shops brimming with pre-loved items – perfect for gifting! Whether you’re after a thoughtful present, a unique card or some eco-friendly wrapping paper, explore your local charity, zero-waste or Revive shops. Don’t forget, there are countless online reuse shops too – visit our More hints and tips page for more information.

These changes are small but mighty for the environment, and if you do your bit, you just might secure your well-deserved spot on the nice list!

For more helpful tips and tricks on staying sustainable over the festive period, follow SEP on Facebook and Instagram.

Local government reorganisation in Surrey

On 28 October 2025, the Government announced that by May 2027, all current county, district, and borough councils in Surrey will be replaced by two new unitary authorities, East Surrey and West Surrey, who will be responsible for all local services.

Over the coming months our priority is the continued delivery of high-quality local services without interruption.

We will continue to work collaboratively with neighbouring authorities and government bodies throughout the reorganisation process to make sure all residents continue to receive the services they depend upon.

To find out more about local government reorganisation in Surrey, take a look at the Surrey LGR hub: Surrey Local Government Reorganisation Hub – Surrey LGR Hub 

We will share any updates in our email newsletter, on social media and on the LGR hub.

Green Your Home: A practical guide to help you make small climate-conscious actions

Earlier this month, we launched our Green Your Home Guide to help residents take simple, everyday steps to contribute to a healthier environment and help combat climate change. 

The guide offers practical advice and tips for making small changes that collectively make a big difference.

The initiative empowers individuals and households to take ownership of their environmental impact through easy-to-follow steps. From reducing waste and conserving energy to choosing sustainable transport and supporting biodiversity, the guide highlights how everyone can play a part.

The Green Your Home Guide is being rolled out as part our Climate Change Action Plan 2025-2029, which has already helped reduce the council’s operational emissions by 16% since 2019/2020. This is part of the council’s commitment to becoming carbon neutral by 2035.

Councillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee, said:

“This guide is about showing people they don’t need to make radical changes to their lives to make a difference. Simple, ongoing changes—whether building on existing efforts or starting something new—can have a meaningful, long-term impact. From making homes more energy efficient, to planning wildlife-friendly gardens, and investing in systems that reduce reliance on fossil fuels, every step counts. We want residents to feel confident and motivated to take action, and we hope the guide supports their decision-making along the way."

For more information - Green Your Home Guide | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council

Do Good. Feel Good. Encouraging under 25s to volunteer

Volunteering is a great way to feel more connected, learn new skills and gain experience. It can also provide opportunities to improve our mental wellbeing, and practice all the Five Ways to Wellbeing - connect, keep learning, be active, take notice and give.

The Surrey Five Ways to Wellbeing are an easy way to think and plan what you can do to boost your wellbeing, improve how you feel, strengthen relationships and connections with your local community, and reduce the risk of poor mental health. You can do this for yourself, your friends, or your team or organisation.

This autumn and winter, Surrey’s Public Health team is encouraging young people under 25 to consider getting involved in volunteering - with opportunities ranging from arts, sports, music, caring for animals and much more.

For more information please see the web page Volunteering guide for under 25.

Other ways to volunteer

Residents can search for volunteering opportunities in Surrey and find information if you only have limited time to volunteer.

Free access to Warm Welcome venues this winter

Many millions of UK residents will be affected by high energy bills, rising mortgage costs unable to keep their home warm and Surrey is no different. Warm Welcome venues are open to all residents this winter free of charge. Whether you are old or young, live alone or with your family, feel like you are struggling or just managing to get by - a Warm Welcome awaits you.

Surrey County Council have once again worked together with Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and our local partners in villages and towns across Surrey to open a network of Warm Welcome spaces to support residents across Surrey this winter.

How to find Warm Welcome venues near you

There are currently over 80 Warm Welcome venues across Surrey in a variety of community spaces including community and church halls, libraries and leisure centres.

All you have to do is show up! Come inside, warm up, enjoy a hot drink with help support and advice if needed and much more.

Some venues will also be offering additional services such as social and creative activities, community fridges and advice cafes.

To find your nearest Warm Welcome visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/warmwelcome

 

Alcohol & Entertainment and Gambling Consultations - open until 18 Jan 2026

Epsom & Ewell Business Awards 2025 - nominations close 31 Dec

Has a local business impressed you with their great customer service, community work or fantastic products?

Nominate an Epsom & Ewell business today for the Epsom & Ewell 2025 business awards!

The Epsom & Ewell Business Awards celebrate the fantastic local businesses in Epsom & Ewell, with awards for the best small or independent business, retail business, pub, restaurant, business for customer service, commitment to the community, business for health and wellbeing, property and construction, best business for professional services and most sustainable or ‘green’ business.

• Nominations close at 11:59pm Wednesday 31 December 2025.
• Winners will be announced in March 2026.

We're running the awards in association with What's On In Epsom. Alongside the council, other sponsors are Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom Square, TWM Solicitors, North East Surrey College of Technology (NESCOT), Family Building Society, Go Epsom, Amber Group, AtkinsRéalis, Peacock & Co, University for the Creative Arts, and We Built Your Website Ltd.

Epsom & Ewell Business Awards - Epsom & Ewell Business Awards

Best of luck to all nominees.

Flu and Covid Vaccinations Autumn/Winter

Winter Ready Flu and Covid Vaccinations. 

It’s that time of year again and winter is fast approaching. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s winter vaccination campaign. 

Getting the flu vaccine 

Each year, flu can cause serious illness - especially in vulnerable groups. Getting vaccinated helps: 

• Protect individuals at highest risk 
• Reduce flu-related hospitalisations and severe illness 
• Prevent transmission in the community 
• Supports children and those in care homes 

Flu strains change each year, so a new vaccine is needed annually. This year’s programme runs from 1 September 2025 to 31 March 2026. 

Who Can Get the Flu Vaccine? 

From 1 September 2025, the following groups are eligible: 

• Pregnant women 
• Children aged 2 or 3 on 31 August 2025 
• Children aged 6 months to under 18 in clinical at-risk groups 
• All primary and secondary school children (Reception to Year 11)* 

*School-aged children will mainly be vaccinated by the School Immunisation Service, though parents may request vaccination at the surgery if preferred. 

From 1 October 2025 the following groups will also be eligible: 

• All adults aged 65 and over 
• Adults aged 18–64 in clinical risk groups 
• Care home residents 
• Carers and main care providers 
• Close contacts of people who are immunocompromised 
• Frontline health and social care workers 

This winter toddlers aged 2-3 will also be able to get a flu vaccine at their local community pharmacy. 

Housebound Patients and Care Homes 

Flu vaccinations for housebound patients and those in care homes will be delivered by local GP Practices and Primary Care Networks.  

Autumn Covid Vaccinations 

Covid vaccination eligibility is different from the flu vaccine. Those who can get Covid vaccinations are the following: 

• Adults aged 75 and over  
• Individuals in a specific high-risk clinical group 
• Residents in older adult care homes 

What Happens Next – Booking an appointment 

Some GP Practices will contact you directly if you are eligible to book an appointment at one of their flu clinics. If you are pregnant, you may be offered a vaccine by your maternity clinic. 

From 1 October, flu vaccines will start being rolled out to anyone eligible, with people encouraged to book an appointment with a pharmacy or their GP via the NHS App online or by calling 119.  After 1 October people will be able to use the pharmacy finder to find walk-in appointments.  

If you're eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine, you can book an appointment online via the NHS App or by calling 119. You can also book a vaccination appointment for a child aged 5 years or over if they are eligible. 

For more information about vaccinations, please visit Surrey Heartlands Vaccinations

Let’s stay healthy this winter. Get vaccinated. Protect yourself. Protect others.