News
Celebrating ‘A Million Acts of Hope’ during Refugee Week
We, in partnership with the Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network, invited residents to take part in A Million Acts of Hope during Refugee Week this month - celebrating the everyday actions that bring people together and strengthen communities.
A Million Acts of Hope is a national initiative recognising the small but meaningful contributions people make to their community each day. From coaching youth teams and volunteering at food banks to supporting neighbours and caring for shared spaces, these acts may go unnoticed, but they play an important role in building compassionate and connected communities.
Running from 15 June to 21 June, Refugee Week offered an opportunity to recognise the contributions of refugees, while celebrating the diversity, resilience and community spirit that enrich local life. This year, we marked A Million Acts of Hope during the same week, highlighting how simple actions can help create a more welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.
These shared values are reflected in the work of the Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network (EERN), which supports refugees to feel welcomed, connected and part of the community. EERN, which is partly funded by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, delivers a range of services, including: group activities, helpdesk support, language classes and community initiatives - all designed to help foster inclusion and understanding.
To encourage residents to get involved, A Million Acts of Hope boards were installed at Epsom Library and Ewell Library (Bourne Hall) during Refugee Week. The CEO of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Jackie King, Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community & Wellbeing Committee at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, the Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Lucie McIntyre and Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network Lead, Jo Sherring, all added their messages to the board. We encouraged visitors to share messages of kindness, gratitude or community spirit.
Participants could write a short note on a postcard, available at both locations, and add it to the display, creating a collective expression of hope across the borough.
Speaking of the upcoming events, Councillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing Committee, said:
“Epsom & Ewell is a borough defined by the strength of its community, and initiatives like A Million Acts of Hope highlight the kindness, compassion and generosity that bring our residents together. It has been truly heartwarming to read the many stories already shared on the boards across the borough, each one reflecting small but meaningful acts of care, gratitude and support.
These stories capture what makes Epsom & Ewell such a special place to live, and I encourage residents to continue adding their voices as we come together to celebrate hope and the power of community.”
Armed Forces Day 'Fly the Flag' Ceremony
We would like to thank everyone who joined us on the morning of 22 June in Epsom Market Place as we proudly raised the #ArmedForcesDay flag.
The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell was joined by the Deputy Lieutenant of Surrey, representatives from 135 Geographic Squadron, The Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (PWRR) and the Royal British Legion, along with the Chief Executive, councillors and officers from Epsom & Ewell Borough Council for this year’s ‘Fly the Flag’ ceremony.
This was a truly meaningful occasion to recognise and thank our Armed Forces community.
Epsom & Ewell's Local Plan Consultation - latest update
Epsom & Ewell's Local Plan consultation closed on Monday 15 June 2026. Thanks to everyone who submitted comments.
Next steps
We will share all comments received with the Planning Inspector and will also publish on our website.
There will be a further one-day hearing on proposed changes on Thursday 2 July 2026 at Epsom Town Hall, The Parade, Epsom, Surrey, KT18 5BY. The hearing can be attended by interested members of the public who wish to observe.
About Epsom & Ewell's Local Plan consultation
Covering the period up to 2040, the Local Plan is at Examination Stage - the final stage of the process before the plan can be legally adopted.
As part of the examination, the council had been instructed by a government-appointed Planning Inspector to undertake additional work in relation to potential additional sites that could be allocated through the Inspector's main modifications to the plan.
In response, we launched a consultation to invite comments on specific documents submitted to the Inspector since October 2025 which identified potential additional sites that could be allocated in the borough's Local Plan to increase housing delivery.
The documents, along with instructions on how to comment, were made available on the council's planning policy consultation platform with printed copies located in local libraries and Epsom Town Hall.
For information about Epsom & Ewell's Local Plan Examination including the latest updates: Local Plan Examination Webpage
Where to find Future Surrey Questions & Answers including about Section 24
The creation of East Surrey Council is part of a wider local government reorganisation across Surrey, designed to simplify services, strengthen local decision-making and deliver long-term value for residents.
Through the Future Surrey Hub you can find the latest information about the local government reorganisation taking place in Surrey.
What is Section 24 and why does it matter?
Section 24 is a statutory direction set by central government to help all Surrey councils make major financial decisions during local government reorganisation. Under Section 24, most councils cannot make big financial decisions on their own and must seek approval from the Shadow Authorities, elected in May 2026. This will help the new councils start in the strongest financial position possible on 1 April 2027.
Shadow Authorities have also agreed to give ‘General Consent’. This allows councils to continue with normal service provision and approved projects from their 2026/27 budgets, so you can access services without interruption.
Section 24 comes into force later this summer. It does not apply to Woking Borough Council and Spelthorne Borough Council as there are already existing commissioning arrangements for best value.
See
Your questions answered
To help keep you informed, we regularly update a set of frequently asked questions. You can view the latest questions and answers here: https://www.surreylgrhub.gov.uk/frequently-asked-questions
Surrey Domestic Abuse Helpline
The men’s football World Cup this summer will generate excitement and emotion.
But it’s also a time when incidents of domestic abuse can rise – reports can go up whether England win, lose or draw.
Whatever the situation, domestic abuse crosses the line and is never acceptable.
For help and support call Surrey's Domestic Abuse helpline on 01483 776822, provided by Your Sanctuary.
Stay safe in the heat: use water fountains located around the borough
Stay safe in the heat by keeping hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself during the hot summer months. If you're heading to one of our green spaces or walking through the town centre, look out for our public water fountains to top up your bottle:
- Alexandra Park
- Auriol Park
- Bourne Hall
- Court Recreational Ground
- Epsom Town Centre Market Place
- Gibraltar Recreation Ground
- Horton Country Park
Also, please look out for vulnerable neighbours, keep pets off hot pavements, and stay in the shade during the peak of the day.
For more essential heatwave safety advice and guidance, visit: Staying safe and well in summer | Healthy Surrey
Serve Up Some Summer Fun: Tennis in Epsom & Ewell
For those looking to embrace summer and get active outdoors, tennis offers an ideal blend of fitness, fresh air, and social connection.
Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time in months or returning as a regular player, our courts are ready.
There are flexible options available to suit every lifestyle. For those who prefer spontaneity, a pay-as-you-go option makes it easy to fit in a quick session whenever the mood strikes. Alternatively, households can take advantage of an annual subscription, which allows up to five people to enjoy unlimited court access throughout the year - an excellent way to stay active together and make the most of the facilities.
In addition to court access, free weekly coaching sessions are available for players of all abilities. These sessions provide a welcoming and supportive environment to develop skills, build confidence and meet others in the community. Coaching takes place at Auriol Park on Saturdays from 10am to 11am, and at Court Recreation Ground on Sundays at the same time.
With warmer weather ahead, there’s no better moment to get back on court, so book your session now: Epsom & Ewell Parks Tennis | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council
EGYM App at Rainbow Leisure Centre: Fitness Tailored Just for You
Our Health and Wellbeing Strategy is all about helping residents live healthier, happier and more independent lives. At Rainbow Leisure Centre, there are lots of ways to get moving — whether you want to build fitness, improve your mobility, or just feel a bit more active day to day.
You can take things at your own pace by using the gym in a way that suits you using EGYM or supported programmes like the Exercise Referral Scheme or by using the gym in a way that suits you.
If you feel unsure about going to the gym, you’re not alone — and there is plenty of support to help you get started and feel comfortable.
One of the ways this is made easier is through EGYM. If you have a mobile phone, the EGYM app can guide you through simple, personalised workouts that adjust to your ability.
With EGYM you can:
- Use equipment that adjusts automatically to suit you
- Follow clear, step-by-step instructions
- Track your progress over time
- Go at a pace that feels right for you
Getting started is simple
You can book a friendly 1:1 introduction with a fitness instructor at Rainbow Leisure Centre. They will help you get set up, show you how everything works, and support you every step of the way. There’s no pressure — just a chance to try something new in a supportive environment.
Recently, Councillor Clive Woodbridge visited Rainbow Leisure Centre to try out the EGYM equipment in the newly refurbished gym.
Councillor Woodbridge said:
“I really enjoyed visiting the centre and trying out the EGYM equipment. It’s easy to use and takes away a lot of the worry about getting started. It’s great to see facilities like this that make it simpler for residents of all abilities to feel confident about being active and looking after their health.”
Find out more about the Rainbow Leisure Centre's EGYM App: EGYM | Places Leisure
Access to Activity Bursary for 12-15 year olds who meet the criteria
Our Access to Activity Bursary is designed to help tackle financial challenges that may prevent 12-15 year olds in the borough from taking part in sport. Eligible young people can receive up to £200 to help with sports club memberships, subscriptions or match fees.
Applications can be submitted any time before 31 December 2026, or until all funding has been distributed.
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. A variety of local sports clubs will participate throughout the year, and more clubs are welcome to apply to take part.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- live in the borough of Epsom & Ewell
- be 12 to 15 years old
- are in receipt of free school meals and/or
- have parents or guardians who are in receipt of Universal Credit payments
Those who are living or have lived in care are also welcome to apply.
Application process
This is a one-off grant, and priority will be given to eligible residents who have not received an Epsom & Ewell Borough Council 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:
- arrange a taster session directly with participating sports club – the list of participating clubs can be found on our website and it will be updated on an ongoing basis
- 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
- 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 the application form and participating sports clubs (updated as the year 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
Community support services for the elderly and vulnerable
Our Community Support Services provide a personal and caring service, offering a helping hand to you and your loved ones. Talk to us if you, or someone you know, could use:
- Door-to-door transport
- Meals delivered
- A personal alarm
- Respite care at our Dementia Hub
- Friendship and fun at our Community & Wellbeing Centre
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from extra support, we’re here to help.
Mental Health support and resources available
A key aim of our proposed Health & Wellbeing Strategy is to support the mental and emotional wellbeing of our community, with a greater emphasis on helping residents build connections with each other, be more active and take advantage of opportunities available through the council and our partners through, for example, training.
Through a range of initiatives and activities, we’re proud to continue creating opportunities that nurture wellbeing, encourage open and honest conversations about mental health, and help break down stigma.
Following Mental Health Awareness Week, 11-17 May, we would like to highlight the mental health support and resources available across the borough - please click here for information about some of the different organisations, and services, available to support anybody facing mental health challenges.
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, please explore what’s available – you are not alone.
Simpler Recycling: New Items you can now recycle
Don't forget you can now add the following items to your recycling:
- Clean and empty cartons such as juice and plant milk cartons
- clean foil scrunched into a ball no smaller than the size of a tennis ball
- clean foil trays
- clean, non-black plastic plant pots
- empty squeezy metal tubes such as tomato puree tubes
- empty squeezy plastic tubes such as toothpaste tubes
- empty aerosol cans care also part of the changes although EEBC already collect those for recycling. You can continue to add empty aerosol cans to your recycling.
This is part of Simpler Recycling which is part of the UK government’s Collection and Packaging Reforms, and will introduce changes to how recycling and waste is collected across England.
Why is Simpler Recycling happening?
Currently, bin collections across England vary between areas, which can create confusion and misinformation among residents. The changes are designed to make recycling the same across all households, reducing confusion and improving recycling rates.
The reforms shift costs to producers to fund improved local authority waste and recycling services and are also expected to lead to the production of fewer hard-to-recycle items.
How should I recycle the new items?
The new items should go in mixed recycling bins in the following ways:
- cartons should be clean and empty
- foil should be clean and scrunched into a ball no smaller than the size of a tennis ball
- foil trays should be clean
- non-black plastic plant pots should be clean
- squeezy metal tubes should be empty
- squeezy plastic tubes should be empty.
Find out more about weekly recycling in Epsom & Ewell here: Simply Weekly Recycling
Hints and tips to help 'Green Your Home' and garden!
Our Green Your Home Guide is designed to help you take simple, everyday steps that contribute to a healthier environment and help combat climate change. Find some tips below to help you make one small change.
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.
- Planting native shrubs, trees and wildflowers provide essential food and shelter for local birds, insects and other wildlife.
- Choosing peat-free compost helps protect vital ecosystems.
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
For more information - Green Your Home Guide | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council
Spotlight on
Epsom & Ewell Home Improvement Agency: Helping People Stay Safe, Independent and at Home
Supporting disabled, elderly and vulnerable residents to remain safe and independent in their own homes is at the heart of our Home Improvement Agency service. Through a home assessment, our experienced team identifies practical solutions to help people live comfortably and safely, using a range of available grant assistance alongside our trusted handyperson service.
Prevention is key. By addressing risks such as slips, trips and falls, the adaptations and repairs we carry out not only improve confidence and safety within the home, but also play a vital role in preventing hospital admissions and reducing the need for people to move into residential care.
Over the past year, the team has once again delivered strong results, supporting residents with a wide range of advice and practical assistance. This has included fitting handrails, installing stairlifts, creating wet rooms, and adapting homes to provide wheelchair-accessible spaces—each tailored to individual needs.
Working in close partnership with the NHS and Surrey County Council, the team has focused on supporting the most vulnerable members of the community. This collaborative approach has helped to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and has supported timely and safe hospital discharges, enabling residents to return home with the right adaptations in place.
The handyperson service has expanded considerably. Following extensive promotional work over the past two years, the scheme has seen a 79% increase in completed jobs, reflecting both rising awareness and the value residents place on having access to reliable, preventative home support
Through early intervention, partnership working and a strong focus on prevention, the service continues to make a meaningful difference—helping people remain safe, independent and at home for longer.
Case Study: Fast-Tracking Support When It Matters Most
Recently, our Home Improvement Agency team received an urgent referral from Adult Social Care for a resident who was terminally ill and in need of immediate bathroom adaptations. The resident required their existing bathroom to be converted into a level-access shower, along with specialist bathing equipment, to support their comfort, safety and dignity.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the case was fast-tracked through our prevention grant for palliative care patients. Within one week of receiving the referral, a joint visit was arranged involving the case officer, surveyor, contractor, the resident and their family. This early collaboration allowed everyone involved to clearly understand the resident’s needs, the proposed adaptations and the timescales involved.
The specification for the works was drawn up within two weeks, with all necessary forms, estimates and consents completed shortly afterwards. The case was funded under one of our discretionary palliative care grants, which enabled the team to prioritise the work and appoint a single contractor, rather than following the usual two-contractor tender process.
Due to the urgent nature of the case, work commenced quickly and was completed within two weeks. The grant process can often involve several teams and take longer but by working closely together and setting clear expectations from the outset, the team was able to streamline the process and deliver the adaptation as swiftly as possible.
These essential adaptations were vital in supporting the resident’s independence and personal dignity. Most importantly, they provided both the resident and their partner with peace of mind and reassurance, knowing that bathing could be carried out safely and comfortably at home during a very difficult time.
Contact the HIA today to find out if you’re eligible by emailing HIA@epsom-ewell.gov.uk or calling 01372 732000.
For more information on the service, please visit the link to our website in the comments below 👇
Home Improvement Agency | Epsom and Ewell Borough Council
What's On
What's on in Epsom & Ewell
Find out what's happening in Epsom & Ewell
Find out what's happening in Epsom & Ewell in the coming months; take a look at the events page on the Epsom & Ewell Borough Council website.
Here are a few highlights:
Saturday 27 June, 12-2pm
Rosebery Park, Epsom KT18 5AW
A community unity event where everyone is welcome - families, children, dogs too. Join with neighbours to celebrate unity. Enjoy great food and music.
Saturday 27 June, 2pm-4pm
St Martin's School, Epsom KT18 7AA
Price: £2 (£1 for members)
Don't miss this exhibition showcasing beautiful flowers, fruit and vegetable displays, photography, craft and cookery. There will also be a plant sale, raffle and refreshments with homemade cakes..
Wednesday 1 July, 8pm-9.30pm
Ewell Hall, London Road, Ewell KT17 2AY
Price: £4 incl. refreshments, free to EEHAS members
Rebecca Harvey of 'The Friends of Bushy and Home Parks' will talk about the history of Bushy Park.
Saturday 4 July, 10am-2pm
Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell KT17 1UF
Price: Free
Browse a variety of stalls showcasing local makers and crafts including unique handmade gifts. You can also take a break with a coffee or lunch at our lovely cafe. Whether you're searching for something special or simply fancy a relaxed day out, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Tuesday 14 July, 2.30pm
Epsom Playhouse, Ashley Avenue, Epsom KT18 5AL
Price: £17
The sensational Gary Anderson – star of the top touring show That’ll Be The Day – headlines this rare matinee appearance, showcasing his brilliant vocal impressions and hilarious comedy. Also appearing are The Fabulous JukeBox Jems, bringing the rock ’n’ roll spirit of the 50s and 60s, plus Royal Variety performer Andy Leach with his laugh-out-loud comedy magic.
Bourne Hall
Find out what's coming up at the Bourne Hall, Spring Street, Ewell, KT17 1UF. For the full and most up-to-date list, please visit the Bourne Hall website.
Some highlights below include:
More Highwaymen Tales with Caroline Baldock (Museum Kids Club)
Saturday 11 July, 1.30pm-3pm
Recommended ages 8-12+, children must be supervised for the duration of the event
Caroline Baldock will be telling strange and exciting tales of highwaymen and their secret lives. Where did they go, what did they do – the thrill of the chase !!!!! The Golden Farmer, Swift Nic Nevison, Dick Turpin and more!
For more details contact Susan Dalloe on sdalloe@epsom-ewell.gov.uk or call 020 8394 1734.
Book your tickets here: Via Sessami Bourne Hall Museum Kid's Club - More Highwaymen Stories | Sessami or call 0208 393 9571.
Excavating Ewell Talk (Festival of Archaeology at Bourne Hall Museum)
Tuesday 21 July, 10am-1pm
Free event
Have you wondered what was here in Ewell before the village you see today? The afternoon talks explore the Roman… and later… sites of Church Meadow and Nescot. Please note that this presentation will include images of human remains.
For more details contact Susan Dalloe on sdalloe@epsom-ewell.gov.uk or call 020 8394 1734.
Book your space here: Via Sessami Excavating Ewell Talks | Sessami or call 0208 393 9571.
Epsom Playhouse
See what's on at Epsom Playhouse
Markets in Epsom & Ewell
Epsom Markets
Regular markets in Epsom Marketplace take place on Thursday and Saturday.
For information on the weekly markets at Epsom Marketplace and others, including the Artisan Market, take a look here: Epsom & Ewell markets
Farmer's Market - Epsom Marketplace
This market usually takes place on the first Sunday of the month.
9.30am - 1.30pm.
Artisan Market - Bourne Hall, Ewell
This market usually takes place the first Saturday of each month.
10am-2pm.
Find out more at www.surreymarkets.co.uk/event/epsom-market
Explore Epsom and Ewell
Get closer to nature and enjoy the outdoors with our various guided walks. Explore local nature reserves, discover your borough's history and boost your health and wellbeing too.
Visit the walks page on our website to discover a range of walks that take place across Epsom and Ewell.
Epsom & Ewell also has several beautiful open spaces which are great for cycling, including Epsom Downs, Epsom Common Local Nature Reserve, Nonsuch Park, Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve, and Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve. You can find cycling routes for all these places on our website.
ECA supports the preservation and protection of Epsom Common local nature reserve and site of special scientific interest. ECA works in partnership with the Council, the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project and English Nature to contribute to the long term management and conservation of the Common.
Nature walks
ECA organises a number of walks on the Common each year which are led by local natural history experts. The subjects that are usually covered each year include birds in early spring, wildflowers, butterflies, invertebrates particularly bush crickets, bats and fungi.
The EcoVols
If you care about the Common and enjoy its wildlife and beauty why not join the EcoVols, the volunteer group of the ECA. EcoVols carry out a variety of conservation projects on the Common throughout the year in association with English Nature, the Council and the Lower Mole Countryside Management Project. You don’t need any special skills or experience just your enthusiasm and time! For more info and the 2020 EcoVols programme see: Conservation on Epsom Common
Your Council
Upcoming council meetings
The following meetings of the Council will be held in July:
The agendas, reports and details on how to view the council meetings are published seven days before the relevant meeting on the website links above.
Meeting dates are subject to change. When looking for details of a particular meeting, please contact the relevant officer to confirm that the meeting is going ahead as scheduled.
The calendar of Council meetings can be found here: democracy.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/Calendar
You can subscribe to updates in order to receive information via e-mail regarding arrangements for particular committee meetings.
Community notice boards
There are community notice boards, known as Borough Boards, in various locations across Epsom & Ewell. The Boards are for local community use and form a vital information point for those who are not online. They are used for timely information and events; they are not used to advertise businesses.
Submitting a poster
If you have a poster you would like placing on the boards, please email communications@epsom-ewell.gov.uk with an electronic copy of the poster, so the team can double check it is appropriate for the boards. Once the team have confirmed the poster is suitable, please print and deliver 25 posters (one for each board) into the postbox outside the main entrance at Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Town Hall, clearly marked ‘Borough Boards’, or ask your Ward Councillor to do so on your behalf.
Please submit your posters as far in advance as possible, to allow plenty of time for posters to be checked and put up on the boards.
Content rules
Posters should advertise timely local information and events. The following will not be accepted:
- Overt advertising of businesses or services
- Any discriminatory language or suggestions, including hate speech and profanities in the text or via images
- Promoting a religious cause only, with no event or activity taking place
- Any political inferences.
Poster content should be easy for everyone to read and respond to. All posters must:
- Be a maximum of A4 in size
- Consider accessibility - they should be easy to read, in colours that are contrasting and not using fonts that may be tricky for those with visual impairments to read
- Posters should include a working phone number wherever possible. A poster that only points to a website / email for more information will not serve those members of the community who are not online.
We reserve the right to select which posters can be featured.
We will insert posters that meet the content rules above on a first submitted, first served basis, until all the spaces are allocated, and to remove any that are out of date in a timely manner.