Ceremonial mayor post to survive council abolition

The mayor and associated civic traditions in Woking are set to remain after the borough's council is dissolved in April.

Woking Borough Council said it had been told the government would legislate to preserve the post, currently held by councillor Rob Leach, which is ceremonial and has no decision-making power.

Local authorities in Surrey will be reorganised into two single-tier councils in 2027, with existing councils like Woking dissolved.

The proposal would create "charter trustees" for the town, the council said. West Surrey Council members would be appointed to the posts to elect the mayor and deputy mayor.

The borough status that currently allows for the Woking mayor and deputy dates to a Royal Charter awarded in 1973, according to the local authority.

The council voted in April to write to the government requesting charter trustees were set up. The trustees would have no further decision-making powers.

Council leader Ann-Marie Barker said she was "delighted that government has listened to our request".

"The mayor is an important part of Woking's identity, representing our borough and bringing communities together at civic, community and charitable events throughout the year," she said.

A draft order is expected to be laid before Parliament early in 2027.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government has been contacted for comment.

The government is proposing to create a directly elected mayor for Surrey as a whole, which would be separate from ceremonial mayors, and play an active political role.

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