Epsom & Ewell Borough Council installs new moped-only parking bays to alleviate inconsiderate parking on Epsom High Street

We have established new moped-only parking spaces outside the Town Hall in a bid to combat pavement parking on Epsom High Street.

The issue of delivery riders mounting kerbs outside fast-food restaurants has been a cause of significant concern for residents and visitors in recent years. Vehicles blocking pavements cause significant safety risks for pedestrians, especially wheelchair users, those with visual impairments, and parents with prams and pushchairs.

The bays are the latest action taken in the council’s multi-agency approach to this issue. Motions have been successfully passed at both Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Surrey County Council to demand dedicated motorcycle parking for all new retail and takeaway developments, a call for "round-tables" with delivery apps (like Uber Eats/Deliveroo), and to push for stronger enforcement of parking regulations.

The Epsom Business Improvement District (Go Epsom) is also working directly with restaurants and delivery riders to promote these dedicated bays as a faster, legal alternative to pavement hopping.

The local effort coincides with a major shift in national law. On January 8, 2026, the Department for Transport (DfT) finally responded to a long-awaited consultation, announcing new powers for local authorities to tackle pavement parking more effectively.

Unlike the previous "street-by-street" approach, which was slow and expensive, the new secondary legislation allows councils to enforce against "unnecessary obstruction" with greater ease.

Councillor Steven McCormick, Chair of the Planning Committee, who also sits on Surrey County Council’s Communities, Environment and Highways Select Committee, said:

“Pavements are for people, they are not for motorised shortcuts. We’ve heard from residents who have been forced into the road because the footway is entirely blocked. We are committed to making the High Street safe for everyone. The new moped bays that Epsom & Ewell have provided will mean there is no longer any excuse for this unacceptable and inconsiderate parking.”

"I also welcome the announcement of new powers from the Department of Transport. As soon as this national legislation is fully enacted, I will be pushing Surrey County Council to implement a new Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) specifically designed to curb pavement parking across the borough.

“This TRO will provide the "teeth" that enforcement officers have lacked, allowing them to issue civil penalties.”

Details of Surrey’s new councils confirmed as government order becomes law

Surrey has reached an important milestone in preparations for new East and West Surrey councils, as Parliament has approved the Surrey Structural Changes Order.

Elections for the new East Surrey Council

On 7 May 2026 you will get the opportunity to vote for two candidates in your ward. They will represent you in your new East Surrey Council.

The councillors elected in May 2026 will work as part of 'shadow authorities' for one year. They'll be working with the existing councils on moving to Surrey's new local government structure. They will continue to represent East Surrey and West Surrey after April 2027. This is when the two new unitary authorities will take over delivering all local services in your area.

Your existing county, borough and district councillors will continue to represent you until 31 March 2027. Therefore, as planned, there will be no elections for the 12 existing county, borough and district councils in Surrey this year. This includes Epsom & Ewell Borough Council. If a by-election is needed in a particular ward, that will still take place.

There is no disruption to council services during this process. We remain focussed on delivering services as usual until the new councils take over in April 2027.

More information about May’s elections in Surrey and how to vote can be found here: Surrey Local Elections May 2026 – Surrey LGR Hub

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council adopts its first Neighbourhood Plan

On 10 March, our Licensing and Planning Policy Committee agreed to adopt the Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Plan. This follows the Referendum held on 12 February 2026 in which 93.4% of eligible residents voted in favour of the Plan. (Public Pack)Agenda Document for Licensing and Planning Policy Committee, 10/03/2026 19:30

The policies contained within the Neighbourhood Plan will be used to help determine planning applications in the neighbourhood area.

The Localism Act 2011 introduced a right for communities to draw up neighbourhood development plans. Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Forum, with support and advice from Epsom and Ewell Borough Council, produced the Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Plan. The Plan has been subject to community and stakeholder engagement and underwent independent examination during September and October 2025, after which the Examiner recommended that the Plan proceed to Referendum.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Stoneleigh Ward councillor said:

“Adopting this Neighbourhood Plan marks a significant moment for Stoneleigh and Auriol, reflecting the hard work and commitment of residents who care deeply about their community. We are pleased to see the community’s vision formally recognised and are proud that the Plan is now embedded within our planning framework, supporting a thriving and sustainable neighbourhood.”

 Councillor Peter O’Donovan, Chair of the Licensing and Planning Policy Committee said:

“With the Committee’s decision to adopt the Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Plan, it now becomes an important part of our planning framework. The Plan will help ensure that future development responds to local priorities and supports well designed, well connected and sustainable places. I want to thank the Neighbourhood Forum and everyone involved for their considerable effort in bringing the Plan to this stage.”

More information about the Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Plan process can be found here: Stoneleigh and Auriol Neighbourhood Plan | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council

Epsom & Ewell Community Governance Review Concludes

At a meeting of the full Council on 12 March, Epsom & Ewell Borough Councillors agreed to conclude the borough’s Community Governance Review (CGR), meaning that Epsom & Ewell will remain an unparished borough.

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

“Local government reorganisation means Epsom & Ewell Borough Council will be abolished in April 2027. For that reason, it was important to review parish council arrangements in our borough and I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to tell us their views. Having conducted the review, we can confirm that no new parish councils will be created in Epsom & Ewell at this time.”

Councillor Beckett continued: “Over the course of the CGR in Epsom and Ewell, I have enjoyed speaking to a great number of residents across the borough about local democracy and local government reorganisation.

“From 1 April 2027, there will be ten Councillors representing Epsom & Ewell on the new East Surrey Council. Please make sure you are ready to vote in these important elections and, when the time comes, have your say on who represents you and your local community.”

To find out more about the upcoming elections in Surrey - including how to make sure you are registered to vote, accepted forms of photo ID (photo ID is required to vote in person) and information on postal and proxy votes, visit: Future Surrey – Surrey LGR Hub

The meeting of the full Council can be viewed online: Epsom and Ewell Democracy

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council invites bids for local infrastructure projects for the final time

We are inviting local community groups and organisations to apply for funds, raised by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), to deliver projects that benefit residents and support new development across the borough.

Bid applications opened on Monday 9 March 2026 and will close on Sunday 17 May 2026.

This will be the final time that Epsom & Ewell Borough Council will run this funding process. From April 2027, the council will be dissolved and replaced by the new East Surrey Council, which will be responsible for delivering local infrastructure projects across the geographic areas of Elmbridge, Epsom & Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate & Banstead and Tandridge.

When new development takes place, it can place extra pressure on local services and facilities. The Community Infrastructure Levy enables councils to raise funds from development to be spent on the provision, improvement, replacement, operation or maintenance of local infrastructure—the levy is intended to give councils more choice and flexibility in how they fund the infrastructure required to support local growth.

Last year, we allocated over £230,000 from the 2024/2025 Neighbourhood CIL Fund for community infrastructure projects, including:

• a permanent secure storage shed for The Library of Things enabling residents to borrow useful household items
• energy-efficient lighting installed in a pedestrian tunnel for the Cattle Arch/Under-Rail Tunnel project
• a Road Safety Outside School Scheme implemented at Linden Bridge School improving pedestrian accessibility, a safety crossing for children on Grafton Road and traffic flow aids.

Councillor Neil Dallen, Chair of the Strategy and Resources Committee said:

“This Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding is a real opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference in our community. As this will be the last chance to apply through Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, we strongly encourage local community groups and organisations to put forward ideas that could benefit their neighbourhoods.

“We’re proud that the Neighbourhood CIL funding has already helped deliver a wide range of successful local projects - from the recently installed 3G football pitch at Glynn School, to secure specialist bike storage for Wheels for Epsom, the regeneration of disused grounds at the Horton Arts Centre, and the water fountains installed at various locations across the borough. These achievements show just how powerful this funding can be when community ambition and local investment come together.

“As the council launches its final tranche of Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy funding, we want to ensure that money raised from new development continues to support projects that strengthen our community and improve the quality of life for residents across the borough for years to come.”

Application process

The bidding process is designed to be a clear as possible and the application form --- available to download from the council’s website, with hard copies at Epsom Town Hall, Bourne Hall and Epsom Playhouse --- aims to help make the process simpler. Neighbourhood CIL Funding | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council

Bids will be shortlisted using the criteria set out in section C of the CIL Spending Protocol (adopted March 2025). More information on the process and prioritisation criteria can be found in section 5 of the CIL Spending Protocol.

To receive funding, all CIL spending applications must be for infrastructure. All bids that pass stage 1 of the assessment process will be examined by the CIL Member Working Group, who will make recommendations to the Strategy and Resources Committee for approval.

It is important for each application to be completed in full. The CIL Spending Protocol (adopted March 2025) needs to be read alongside the application form.

Any questions about the application form or process can be emailed to: CIL@Epsom-Ewell.gov.uk(link sends e-mail).

Epsom & Ewell Jobs Fair

Looking for career opportunities?

Find out more here: Epsom and Ewell Jobs Fair at @Nescot

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council renews its commitment to combatting anti-social behaviour

We have strengthened our commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour (ASB) in the borough by renewing the Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge at the latest Crime and Disorder Committee.

The Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge is advocated by charity ASB Help to support and promote the victim’s voice in respect of the ASB Case Review process. This is the process in which victims of ASB can request a multi-agency review of their case.

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council first made the pledge in 2022, and it is one of many initiatives the council and its strategic partners in the Community Safety Partnership have implemented to combat anti-social behaviour.

Another initiative the committee was updated on is Safer Epsom & Ewell, a multi-agency approach to addressing serious organised crime and anti-social behaviour in the borough.

Last year, Surrey Police made a significant number of arrests linked to serious organised crime and county lines, laying the groundwork for the council and its partners to facilitate initiatives aimed at rebuilding a safer environment for residents and businesses.

The latest update on this phase of Safer Epsom & Ewell, included news on funding from the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for two initiatives:

• New Era Academy Training (NEAT), a charity based at Court Recreation Ground that supports young people through sport, mentoring, education, and community programmes, to enable a further 12 months of activity
• Pending final agreement, the partnership will work with Engage Lime, an organisation which operate programmes to develop skills in younger people, to promote positive behaviour change and build better futures.

Councillor Alan Williamson, Chair of Crime and Disorder Committee, said:

“Anti-social behaviour is a scourge on society and affects everyone: victims, residents and perpetrators. I hope, by renewing the Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge and through our continued partnership activities as part of Safer Epsom & Ewell, we will build a safer environment for our residents, visitors and business owners.

“To residents and victims of anti-social behaviour, I would like to say that there is no one-fix solution to addressing this problem. By working with partners, we are not just addressing the existing issue of anti-social behaviour but also the causes of it.

“To the perpetrators, I would like to say that we and our partners are united in our aim of stopping organised crime and anti-social behaviour.”

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council launches bursary to help tackle sports inequality for 12-15 year olds - open from 30 March 2026

We are proud to announce the launch of the Access to Activity bursary, designed to help tackle the financial challenges that may prevent 12–15-year-olds in the borough from taking part in sport. 

The bursary offers up to £200 to help fund, or part fund, sports club membership costs, subscriptions and match fees. It is open to young people who receive free school meals and/or whose parents or guardians receive Universal Credit payments, and those who are living or have previously lived in care.

The bursary will open to applications on Monday 30 March 2026 and will close on 31 December 2026, or when the funding has been fully allocated.

The bursary will see a variety of local sports clubs participate throughout the year, and more clubs are welcome to apply to take part.

The bursary supports the aims of EEBC’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy (2025-28) which focuses on increasing physical activity, improving wellbeing and reducing health inequalities in Epsom and Ewell.

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

“We know that for many families, the cost of taking part in sport can be a real obstacle. By helping to ease financial pressures, the Access to Activity bursary can help ensure 12–15-year-olds can take part in a sport they enjoy, feel included and thrive! We encourage parents, guardians and young people to explore what’s available and apply.

“Through our Health and Wellbeing Strategy, we remain committed to supporting the physical and emotional wellbeing of our children and young people. The bursary now offers eligible older children the same opportunity that younger children received through our first Young Legends programme, launched last year to help 9–11-year-olds build confidence, learn new skills and form social connections. Having seen the positive impact on participants, we’re excited that Young Legends will return this summer.

“We would like to thank our partners for their invaluable support with the Access to Activity bursary and the many community activities delivered throughout the year. Their help is essential in bringing our strategy to life.”

Application process

This is a one-off grant, and priority will be given to eligible residents who have not received an EEBC grant aimed at facilitating access to physical activity in the past five years. 

 If the 12–15-year-old is eligible, applicants will need to follow this process:

1. arrange a taster session directly with participating sports club – the list of participating clubs can be found on the council’s website and it will be updated on an ongoing basis
2. following the taster, if the 12–15-year-old wants to continue and enrol with the club, the council’s application form will need to be completed
3. EEBC will then be in touch to confirm next steps.

Note: If the application is successful, the applicant will be asked to contact the sports club directly to enrol in their chosen activity. 

All information about the Access to Activity bursary --- including eligibility, the application form and participating sports clubs (updated as the bursary progresses) --- can be found here: https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/access-to-activity

For any questions, email the Community Development team at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council: cdevelopment@epsom-ewell.gov.uk

Epsom & Ewell's Manor Open Space designated a Site of Nature Conservation Importance

Manor Open Space in Epsom has been designated a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) by the Surrey Local Sites Partnership. The site contains several significant features, including veteran oak trees and the extremely rare moth Coleophora conspicuella (Knapweed Case-bearer) which had not been recorded in Surrey for around 100 years until 2024.

The designation also recognises Manor Open Space’s vital role as a wildlife corridor, linking Epsom Common and Horton Country Park local nature reserves. This connection supports the movement of species and strengthens the borough’s wider ecological network.

SNCIs (also known as Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation or Local Wildlife Sites) are non-statutory local designations that recognise areas of high biodiversity value. They help protect rare or threatened species and habitats and provide crucial wildlife corridors.

Councillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee said:

“We are proud that Manor Open Space has been recognised for the important role it plays in supporting resilient ecosystems across the borough. Through our Biodiversity Action Plan, we can protect our natural heritage, and the presence of veteran oak trees along with the discovery of extremely rare moth species in Manor Open Space, reflects the dedication of everyone involved in caring for our habitats.

“This SNCI designation is a testament to the hard work, diligence and passion of our Countryside team, partners and much valued volunteers who continually strive to improve our green spaces for the benefit of our community. Their commitment ensures that these habitats will be enjoyed for many years to come.”

More information about the council’s Biodiversity Action Plan can be found on our website: https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/residents/access-nature/biodiversity-epsom-ewell

Our Heritage Champion’s Report for 2025-2026

At our recent Licensing and Planning Policy Meeting on Tuesday 10 March, the efforts of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s Heritage Champion, Councillor Kim Spickett, were highlighted in the Heritage Champion Annual Statement.

As our Heritage Champion, Councillor Spickett advocates for heritage in planning and regeneration, ensuring that local history is considered in development, fostering community engagement, and working with partners to preserve local character. 

Councillor Kim Spickett has compiled a fantastic report outlining her activities in promoting and protecting the history of Epsom & Ewell over the past year.

Councillors described the report to be ‘full of enthusiasm’ and went on to credit the amount of time and research that had gone into creating it. Councillor Lawrence made particular note of the references to the Civil War – an area he found particularly interesting, even more so when discovering about the links to his hometown.

Councillors spoke about their interest in having the report seen more widely, you can watch the discussion here (1) Licensing and Planning Policy Committee - 10 March 2026 - YouTube (agenda item 5, around 29 minutes 31 seconds) and we’d encourage anyone interested to view the full report online: (Public Pack)Item 5 - Heritage Champion Annual Statement Agenda Supplement for Licensing and Planning Policy Committee, 10/03/2026 19:30

COVID-19 Day of Reflection 2026

On Sunday 8 March, councillors from Epsom & Ewell Borough Council placed knitted and crafted heart tributes on COVID‑19 memorial benches across the borough as part of the national COVID‑19 Day of Reflection.

Visit our website - 2026 COVID-19 Day of Reflection | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council. - to find out the location of the benches with heart tributes.

Planning continues to ensure new Surrey councils are ready to serve communities from day one. 

On Friday 13 March, the East and West Surrey Joint Committees met to continue their work supporting a smooth and well managed transition ahead of vesting day on 1 April 2027. 

These committees bring together councillors from the current councils to begin planning for the move to the new East and West Surrey authorities. They will continue to meet monthly until the Shadow Authorities are formally established following the May 2026 elections. This early work is about putting the right foundations in place and providing stability during a period of change. 

What was discussed at the March meetings: 

• Implementation Programme  
  The Joint Committees continue to oversee the work of the Implementation Team (Programme Board), reinforcing the priority for a smooth and well managed transition to East and West Surrey Councils.
  

• A draft illustrative financial baseline report was presented.  This illustrative financial baseline gives an early view of the position the new councils are likely to inherit in April 2027. It shows that both East and West Surrey will face financial pressures, including rising demand for services and limited resources. Financial pressures that would be present whether or not devolution and local government reorganisation were taking place. 

It also highlights specific challenges in parts of West Surrey linked to historic debt, underlining the importance of careful and responsible financial planning as we move towards Vesting Day. 

While the work ahead for the Shadow Authorities will be significant, this baseline provides a helpful starting point. With strong governance, clear financial oversight, partnership working and continued engagement with government to unlock the debt relief arrangements for Woking’s historic debt, the aim is to establish two stable and resilient councils, ready to support their communities from day one. 

Government has been clear that it remains committed to working with Woking to resolve its legacy debt issues. A ministerial letter received from Alison McGovern MP in February 2026 has confirmed that “we will continue to explore what further debt support is required at a later point”.

• How plans will be checked after the elections 
  Following the Shadow Authority elections, Shadow Overview and Scrutiny Committees will take on an important role in reviewing the implementation plans. They will provide independent challenge to the Shadow Cabinets, helping to identify and manage risks and making sure plans are realistic, robust and legally sound. This scrutiny is a key safeguard to ensure decisions are well considered and the transition stays on track.
  

• Planning during the Shadow Period 
  Under the Surrey (Structural Changes) Order 2026, Shadow Authorities will decide their own meeting schedules. To help with this, the Joint Committees discussed a draft timetable to recommend to them, with meetings expected to begin from 20 May 2026 (venues to be confirmed). 

Devolution update 

Surrey councils are continuing discussions with government about bringing more decision making powers closer to Surrey, through a countywide Strategic Authority, giving Surrey a stronger voice on local issues. 

Councils will consider whether to submit an expression of interest to become a Foundational Strategic Authority, a form of devolution without a Mayor that would enable greater local decision making, including around economic growth, and provide a pathway to a future Mayoral Strategic Authority. 

Terence Herbert, Senior Responsible Officer for  Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation  in Surrey and Chief Executive of Surrey County Council said:    

“This work is about planning ahead, being honest about the challenges, and making sure the new councils start on a strong footing. By focusing on good governance, sound financial planning and partnership working, we are taking the right steps now to ensure our residents are supported from 1 April 2027 and beyond.” 

Cllr  Bridget Kendrick,  Chair of  the East  Surrey  Joint  Committee and  Mole Valley District Council  Leader  said:  

“By agreeing clear programme governance, understanding the financial position we are working from, and strengthening scrutiny and oversight, we are focused on ensuring a smooth and well managed transition to the East and West Surrey Councils in April 2027.”

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, Chair of the West Surrey Joint Committee and Woking Borough Council Leader said:  

“Our priority is to put strong foundations in place so that, from day one, two stable and resilient councils are ready to support their communities. This work is about providing confidence, continuity and stability through the transition.”

You can view the meeting papers, the full list of councillors for each committee and the webcasts: 

• East Surrey Joint Committee   

• West Surrey Joint Committee   

The next meetings of the Joint Committees will take place in April – dates and venues to follow. These meetings will also be webcast. 

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

Our Green Your Home Guide is designed 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.

From reducing waste and conserving energy to choosing sustainable transport and supporting biodiversity, the guide highlights how everyone can play a part. 

Did you know...

• Draught-proofing and insulating your home is an effective way to stay comfortable while reducing energy use.
• Using outdoor lighting carefully - such as choosing downlighters - helps direct light where it's needed, reduces upward light spill and protects wildlife.
• Installing a water butt onto any downpipe (even a shed roof) allows you to collect rainwater to help your plants thrive naturally. It also reduces tap water use, which may help lower household bills..

If you're thinking about making a change, we suggest you:

Review what you are currently doing
Compare this with other suggested activities
 Commit to make one small change

The Green Your Home Guide is being rolled out as part our Climate Change Action Plan 2025-2029.

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

Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund

Are you a voluntary, community, or faith sector (VCFS) organisation in England, with a maximum income of £5 million a year, that has been delivering support for at least 3 years to individuals at risk of, or currently experiencing, homelessness and rough sleeping?

There is a small window for VCFS organisations that meet these criteria to apply for Government funding for projects that provide:

1. community-based support – to improve the quality, capacity, or reach of voluntary, community and faith groups to develop long-term solutions to prevent and reduce rough sleeping
2. day services – to improve the quality, capacity, or reach of day services for people experiencing homelessness and rough sleeping.
3. recovery – to improve support for a person once they have moved in to settled accommodation, using the local community to develop a support network.

To find out more, follow the link to the UK government website - Ending Homelessness in Communities Fund - prospectus - GOV.UK

If you are interested in applying for these funds, please submit your proposal to the housing team at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council by 5pm, Thursday 26 March. The team will contact you on Friday 27 March to discuss your proposal.

Please send your proposal, and any enquiries, to: Housing@epsom-ewell.gov.uk.