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Go ahead approved for Biodiversity Action Plan

Epsom & Ewell Biodiversity Action Plan’s five-year review ratified by Committee.

On 24 June, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s Environment Committee ratified progress made on the Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan 2020-2030. The five-year review also reflects legislative changes made as part of the Government’s Environment Act 2021. (Public Pack)Agenda Document for Environment Committee, 24/06/2025 19:30,- from page 29)

The Biodiversity Action Plan 2020-2030 is linked to the Council’s Climate Change Action Plan, helping the borough to meet its climate change goals.

Key successes made by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council between 2020-2025

Some of the report’s highlights include:

      • Protected species are now considered as part of the householder planning application process.
      • Improved grassland management across the borough’s local nature reserves, Nonsuch Park, and Epsom Downs.
      • An Ash-Dieback Working Group, established by the Council’s Tree Officer, has developed a plan for managing diseased trees in order to safeguard the public and protect biodiversity.
      • Improved mapping and management of veteran trees across the borough.
      • New ponds created in Horton Country Park and Epsom Common Local Nature Reserves.
      • New wetland habitat developed at Chamber Mead in the Hogsmill Local Nature Reserve in partnership with the South East Rivers Trust.

Epsom & Ewell Biodiversity Action Plan’s five-year review ratified by Committee

Legislative changes

The Environment Act 2021 strengthens the legal duty for public bodies to conserve and enhance biodiversity. Legislative changes include:

      • All planning permissions granted in England (with a few exemptions) are to deliver at least 10% biodiversity net gain and all off-site, and significant on-site habitats will need to be secured for at least 30 years.
      • New biodiversity reporting requirements for local authorities.
      • Mandatory spatial strategies for nature with Local Nature Recovery Strategies (LNRS).

 

Councillor Liz Frost, Chair of the Environment Committee said: “We are committed to creating and maintaining habitats that support resilient ecosystems in our local nature reserves and green spaces across the borough. Our Biodiversity Action Plan plays a vital role in tackling climate change.

This five-year review has highlighted the vast amount of work, and wide-ranging activities, that we deliver. A prime example is Epsom Common Local Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, that was awarded its 18th consecutive Green Flag Award in 2024. Also, fantastic partnership work to create wetlands is enabling the reintroduction of water voles to Surrey for the first time in over 20 years along the Hogsmill River.

Thanks to our countryside team for their passion, hard work and expertise in shaping biodiverse habitats across the borough. Also, a huge thank you to our partners and volunteers, without their support we wouldn’t be able to enjoy such wonderful green spaces.”

Epsom & Ewell Biodiversity Action Plan’s five-year review ratified by Committee

Have Your Say on the Future of Local Government in Surrey

Residents across Surrey are being urged to take part in a landmark Government consultation that will help determine the future shape of local government in the county.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has now officially launched its consultation on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) in Surrey. This marks the most significant change to local government in the county in over 50 years, giving residents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape how decisions are made, services are delivered, and communities are represented.

The consultation is open to all residents, businesses, voluntary groups, and local organisations. This is the only opportunity for the public to comment on these proposals — and every response counts.

 

surrey Epsom EwellCouncillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council and Chair of the Surrey Leaders Group, said:

 

“Residents have consistently told us that they want decisions made by people who know and understand their communities, and this is supported by over 60% of respondents to the survey that Surrey district and borough councils undertook in April who had a preference for a three-unitary model.

 

“We believe the three-unitary model best reflects that – delivering better services, stronger accountability, and a future that works for every part of Surrey. Whatever your view, the important thing is that you take part and make your voice heard.”

The Government is consulting on two options:

  • The proposal by Surrey County Council, to create two unitary authorities;
  • The other, supported by nine district and borough councils, to establish three new unitary councils.

It is recognised and understood that MHCLG will not be progressing or carrying out consultation regarding the Reigate & Banstead/Crawley proposal.

Councillor Hannah Dalton continued:

“Both models are financially viable, provided the Government addresses Surrey’s unrecoverable debt, mainly in Woking. In correspondence received from the Secretary of State, Jim McMahon MP we welcome the Government’s acceptance that, even after rationalisation of Woking’s historic assets, it is likely that the majority of the councils’ remaining debt cannot be managed locally; but wait to see what this means in terms of support after 2026/27.”

The three-unitary proposal provides a stronger long-term foundation for high-quality local government, including:

      • Stronger public services designed around local needs
      • Better alignment with local identities and communities
      • Greater opportunities for economic growth and infrastructure delivery
      • More responsive and accountable local governance.

Councillor Dalton continued:

“The Government consultation is your only opportunity to influence how your area is governed for future decades.

 

“We want as many residents as possible to have their say in this consultation, and we have been assured by MHCLG that every response will be treated equally. I would encourage every resident, business, local voluntary sector partner, parish and town council to complete the consultation.  For more information on the proposals being considered linked to the Government’s questions, please take a look at the Surrey LGR website.”

Find out more: visit Surrey Local Government Reorganisation Hub – Surrey LGR Hub

Take part in the official Government consultation:

      • The consultation will be available at surrey-local-government-reorganisation and will be open for seven weeks until Tuesday 5 August.
      • Responses may be made on the department’s online platform ‘Citizen Space’ or alternatively by email to [email protected] or in writing to LGR Consultation, Fry Building 2NE, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, 2 Marsham Street, London SW1P 4DF.
      • Deadline: Tuesday 5 August.
      • Visit: Surrey Local Government Reorganisation

The Great Get Together

THE GREAT GET TOGETHER is a free community event to celebrate all that unites us. It’s happening on Sunday 22nd June 2025 at St Joseph’s Church Hall, St Margaret Drive, Epsom KT18 7JQ from 1pm – 4pm

Good Company (Surrey) is hosting a FREE community event for all the family. This is part of a network of events around the country called The Great Get Together, inspired by Jo Cox’s belief that we have more in common than that which divides us.

“Hosting a community event like The Great Get Together allows us to bring people from all walks of life together in a spirit of unity, friendship and shared humanity. It’s an opportunity to celebrate our diversity, forge new connections, and show that Epsom is a place where everyone belongs” explains Jo Sherring, Epsom and Ewell Refugee Network Lead.

The event is completely free, with music, food, activities and entertainment for all the family. It will be opened by The Worshipful The Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Robert Leach and the Mayoress.

The free entertainment includes songs from the Ukrainian choir, a Disney Sing-along, the Freedom Pulse Brass Band as well as children’s entertainment and crafts, treasure hunt, henna hand-paintng, artisan displays, and an assortment of games and sports including Crazy Golf.

Good Company incorporates Epsom & Ewell Food Bank, Epsom & Banstead Pantries and Epsom & Ewell Refugee Network.

Even though the event is free, entry tickets need to be booked using the QR code on the flyer below. This also shows the timetable of the afternoon.

The Great Get Together

BetFred Derby Draw 2025

In a historic first for British horse racing, the draw for the Epsom Derby—the world’s most prestigious flat race—was held 72 hours before the event at a special ceremony hosted at the Epsom Picturehouse in Epsom Square, Epsom, Surrey.

With an audience including horse owners, top trainers, racing journalists, and local business figures, the draw combined heritage with showmanship. Legendary jockey Willie Carson, a four-time Derby winner, and Martin Dwyer, who famously rode Sir Percy to victory in the 2006 Epsom Derby, conducted the draw.

BetFred Derby Draw

In a unique collaboration with the English Football Association, the Derby utilised the same balls and machine used for FA Cup draws, adding an extra layer of drama and familiarity to proceedings. As tradition and data collided, all eyes were on one number: Stall 10. Since starting stalls were introduced in 1967, no stall has produced more winners—11 in total—than this fabled gate. This went to  Irish trainer Aidan O’Brien’s runner, Lambourn speculation swirled through the room about how the draw might impact the race outcome.

Following the ceremony, Willie Carson reflected on the enduring challenge of the Derby and the iconic course at Epsom Downs:

“It definitely is the true test of the thoroughbred. The mile and a half, coming down the hill towards Tattenham Corner—you’re at the seven furlongs, 110 feet from the start to the top of the hill. That’s a long way out of it, climbing all the way. Then you come round, and you’re turning from the seven furlongs, slightly left, all the way until you get into the straight.”

Martin Dwyer agreed, noting the unpredictable nature of Epsom’s unique topography:

“Some horses don’t like running downhill—and it’s the steepest hill we’ve got. I’ve ridden horses around Epsom that just don’t act. It’s a challenge of a thoroughbred, challenge of a jockey, and a test of both horse and rider mentality. It is one of the hardest races to win.”

Pressed on their tips for the BetFred Derby 2025, both Carson and Dwyer leaned toward the favorite, Delacroix, while Carson offered Stanhope Gardens as his pick for a valuable each-way bet.

Jim Allen new manager at Epsom Downs DerbyJim Allen, General Manager of Epsom Downs Racecourse, added a personal touch to the event.

“As someone who grew up in Croydon, to be in charge of the Derby is surreal. I grew up going to the Derby as a kid—it was the only day I’d miss school for. It always was, and still is, the greatest horse race in the world. The track is a rollercoaster. There’s nothing like it anywhere.”

Course conditions were also a hot topic. Andrew Cooper, Clerk of the Course, explained the challenges faced this year:

“It’s been a difficult spring—so dry. This is my 30th Derby, and I’ve never known such a prolonged dry spell from March through May. That said, we could see some heavy showers on Saturday, which could change the going again. We’re monitoring it closely.”

BetFred Derby DrawAmong the hopefuls is local resident James Rimmer, part-owner of Stanhope Gardens, who shared his excitement ahead of race day:

“I’ll get up there in plenty of time. I can walk to the course—it takes me about 20 minutes. Hopefully we’ll run a nice race and have something to celebrate. It’s a good each-way price anyway. I’ll pop over to the old Amato and see whose name has been written on the well—you never know.”

As the countdown continues to Saturday’s race, excitement is palpable across Epsom and the racing world. With a revamped draw process, a competitive field, and the unpredictable British weather in play, the 2025 BetFred Derby promises all the ingredients for another thrilling chapter in racing history.

For Tickets or More Details About The Day CLICK HERE

Epsom & Ewell Council considers Community Governance Review

Earlier this month, at a meeting of the full Council, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) agreed new strategic priorities for 2025-2027, with the number one priority being to explore future local governance in Epsom & Ewell. This week, Councillors will attend a briefing on Community Governance Review (CGR) and will, with the Mayor’s agreement, schedule an extraordinary full Council meeting on Thursday 26 June 2025. At the extraordinary Council meeting, Councillors would agree whether to commence with a CGR in Epsom & Ewell, that could eventually lead to the creation of new community councils.

Community councils provide a vital link between residents and larger unitary authorities, which will be critical as a result of imminent local government reorganisation in Surrey. They aim to enhance local representation by providing a direct route for the essential voices of residents and local communities, ensuring that residents are aware of local issues, and are involved in decision-making they are affected by.

surrey Epsom EwellCouncillor Hannah Dalton, Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, said “We are navigating the biggest change in local democracy for more than 50 years. As a priority we are working to ensure that, whatever the outcome of local government reorganisation, the voices of our residents and local communities continue to be heard in years to come – this is a vital element of local democracy. We will keep residents informed and updated throughout this process.”

In the coming days, Councillors will be briefed on the CGR process and possible geographies for establishing community councils in Epsom & Ewell:

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council considers Community Governance Review Epsom & Ewell Borough Council considers Community Governance Review

Should full Council decide to commence with the CGR, the process will include a public consultation which would take place summer 2025, with any final proposal being consulted on in early 2026.

EEBC council meetings, including extraordinary full Council meetings, are open to the public to observe and are also live streamed: details on how to watch meetings can be found on the council’s website: Epsom and Ewell Democracy

In light of the plans for local government reorganisation, which will see the formation of new unitary councils and the dissolution of all current district, borough and county councils in Surrey; EEBC approved an amendment to the Council’s Four-Year Plan earlier this month, replacing it with strategic priorities for 2025-2027. Prior to the 9 May final submission deadline, Epsom & Ewell with nine of the eleven Surrey district and borough councils submitted a proposal to government to create three unitary councils in north, east and west Surrey. The county council and two other district and borough councils favour a two unitary model. Council leaders ruled out the creation of one unitary council for Surrey in February this year.

Find out more about local government reorganisation in Surrey on the Surrey LGR Hub: Surrey Local Government Reorganisation Hub – Surrey LGR Hub

Blue Plaque Unveiled in Dorking to Honour Rorke’s Drift Hero

Blue Plaque Unveiled in Dorking to Honour Rorke’s Drift Hero Frank Bourne on 80th Anniversary of His Death

On Saturday, 17th May , a large and respectful crowd gathered on South Street, Dorking, to witness the unveiling of a Blue Plaque in honour of Lieutenant Colonel Frank Bourne OBE DCM, who was the last British survivor of the famed 1879 Battle of Rorke’s Drift. The ceremony organised by local historian Tim Richardson, held 80 years after his death on 9th May, 1945, marked a poignant tribute to a man whose quiet later years in Dorking belied a legendary military career forged in one of the most celebrated battles in British military history.

The commemorative plaque was affixed to the building now home to the Dorking Clock Centre, which once housed the tearoom run by Bourne’s daughter. Frank Bourne lived there during his final years, passing away at the age of 90. It was a fitting place to remember the man who, as a 5’3” Colour Sergeant in the 24th Regiment, held a pivotal command role in the defence of Rorke’s Drift against overwhelming Zulu forces.

The unveiling ceremony was carried out by Colour Sergeant Kevin Smith of the Royal Welsh Regiment—successors to the 24th Regiment—and Princess Zama-Zulu, a descendant of the Zulu warriors who fought in the historic conflict. Both have ancestral ties to the events of 1879, and their presence added a layer of emotional and historical depth to the proceedings.

A Soldier of Distinction

Blue Plaque Unveiled in Dorking to Honour Rorke’s Drift Hero Frank Bourne on 80th Anniversary of His DeathBorn in 1854, Frank Bourne enlisted in the British Army at a young age and rapidly distinguished himself through both discipline and leadership. At just 24 years old, he was the senior non-commissioned officer at the Mission Station at Rorke’s Drift, Natal, South Africa, when approximately 150 British and colonial troops were attacked by an estimated 4,000 Zulu warriors on January 22–23, 1879.

The battle, which saw the defenders successfully repel repeated assaults over nearly 12 hours, resulted in the awarding of 11 Victoria Crosses—more than in any other single engagement in British military history. Bourne’s own bravery earned him the Distinguished Conduct Medal (DCM), and he was offered a battlefield commission, which he declined due to the financial hardship it would have imposed on his family at the time.

Despite his modest beginnings and refusal of early promotion, Bourne later accepted a commission and eventually rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and served with distinction throughout his career.

From Battlefield to Tearoom

After retiring from military service, Bourne lived with his daughter, who ran a small tearoom on South Street in Dorking. Neighbours recall him as a quiet, dignified figure who rarely spoke of the war, though he remained proud of his service. He passed away peacefully on May 9, 1945, just one day after Victory in Europe Day, marking the end of World War II in Europe.

His life spanned the high Victorian era and the great cataclysm of World War I and II

Zulu The Film 

Blue Plaque Unveiled in Dorking to Honour Rorke’s Drift Hero Frank Bourne on 80th Anniversary of His DeathFor many, the name Frank Bourne may ring familiar thanks to the 1964 film Zulu, in which he was portrayed by actor Nigel Green. However, the screen version bore little physical resemblance to the real man. Green, a commanding figure at 6’4” with a 50-inch chest, was twice Bourne’s size and significantly older than the youthful sergeant he portrayed.

That discrepancy has always amused military historians, But it also speaks to the mythologising of Rorke’s Drift. The real story is even more compelling than the film version.

Shared Heritage: British and Zulu Legacies Meet Again

One of the most moving aspects of the ceremony was the joint presence of Colour Sergeant Smith and Princess Zama-Zulu. The event was not only a remembrance of a British hero but also an opportunity for reflection on the broader legacy of colonial history and its ongoing reverberations.

Princess Zama-Zulu spoke eloquently about the need for mutual respect and shared memory.

“This plaque is not just a mark of honour for a brave man,” she said. “It is a reminder that history lives in all of us. My ancestors fought for their homeland, just as Frank Bourne defended his post. Today, we remember them together, in peace.”

Colour Sergeant Smith echoed the sentiment. “We in the Royal Welsh carry forward the traditions of the 24th. Remembering Colour Sergeant Bourne is remembering the best of those who served. But it’s also about recognising the full story—the courage on both sides of that hill in 1879.”

Legacy Beyond the Plaque

After the service on South Street, visitors lingered to read the inscription, many moved by the depth of history behind the unassuming building.

“To think that this quiet man who took part in Rorke’s Drift lived and drunk tea here was once in the thick of one of the most storied battles in British military history—it gives you a different perspective,” said local resident Jeremy Miles.

In a time when the complexities of history are being re-examined with fresh eyes, the plaque stands not only as a tribute to military gallantry but as a touchstone for dialogue, remembrance, and reconciliation. As the echoes of a 146-year-old battle continue to ripple through time, the town of Dorking has found a meaningful way to ensure the legacy of Frank Bourne—and all those who fought at Rorke’s Drift—is not forgotten.

Reporter Paul Taylor

Mole Valley District Council New Leader and Cabinet

Mole Valley District Council Welcomes New Leader and Cabinet to Drive Forward Strategic Vision

Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Cabinet, led by Councillor Bridget Kendrick as the Leader. The new team brings together experience, professional skills and a shared commitment to delivering the MVDC’s strategic vision for a fairer, greener and more prosperous Mole Valley at time of unprecedented change.

Supporting the Leader is Councillor Claire Malcomson, who will serve as Deputy Leader and lead the Climate portfolio. The Cabinet also includes:

    • Councillor Rosemary Hobbs – Waste, Recycling and Environmental Health
    • Councillor Andrew Matthews – Finance
    • Councillor Keira Vyvyan-Robinson – Commercial Assets and Projects
    • Councillor Nick Wright – Leisure and Community Assets
    • Councillor Caroline Joseph – Services and Security
    • Councillor Bradley Nelson – Planning and Infrastructure
    • Councillor Paula Keay – Sustainable Economy

The Cabinet will be responsible for delivering MVDC’s key priorities, including the implementation of the Annual Plan and Corporate Strategy, as well as overseeing areas such as governance, emergency planning, community safety, climate change action, housing, economic development, and community wellbeing.

Businesses Invited to Free Climate Action Event to Cut Costs and Boost SustainabilityCouncillor Bridget Kendrick, Leader of MVDC said: “I am honoured to take on the role of the Leader of MVDC at such a pivotal time. Our new Cabinet is united in its commitment to delivering the Council Strategy and ensuring that residents, businesses and communities in Mole Valley can thrive. The next two years will be crucial for ensuring we’ll get things right for Mole Valley during the Local Government Reorganisation to protect its’ heritage, identity and interests among the wider Surrey councils.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Councillor Stephen Cooksey for his outstanding service to Mole Valley and its residents. As the longest-serving Leader in the district’s history, Stephen played a pivotal role in delivering some of our most significant projects, including the Local Plan, the Dorking and Bookham Masterplans, and the Service Transformation programme. It is a privilege to take the reins and lead MVDC at this landmark point in its history.”

More details on the new Cabinet appointments and portfolios can be found on MVDC website.

 

New Digital Guide Of Horton Country Park

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has launched a new digital tour that showcases local beauty spot, Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve. The tour is available to download now via Bloomberg Connects. Epsom and Ewell Borough Council created the tour to help both first-time and returning visitors explore the history of Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve.

This is the second tour to be launched on Bloomberg Connects by Epsom & Ewell Borough Council; in September 2023, Nonsuch Park went live on the app, allowing users to peruse the formal gardens at their leisure.

Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve covers 200 acres and is situated in the northern half of the borough of Epsom and Ewell. There are 14 stops along the tour, which include Pond Wood with a mention of the bomb crater which was left from an air raid in 1941; volunteering at Horton Country Park; as well as the community orchard where residents can pick apples in the summer season. It also highlights the Horton Light Railway, which once ran through the area, serving the largest hospital cluster of its kind in Europe at the time. The entire walking tour takes approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours, but can be enjoyed at any pace, returning to the start at any of the designated turning points.

The new digital tour of Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve is packed full of information, interesting facts, photos, history and more. It is the perfect accompaniment to enhance the experience of those visiting Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve and makes information accessible to people anytime, anywhere.

The tour is an important part of the council’s Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategy. One of the aims of the strategy is to increase access to culture and heritage in Epsom & Ewell, allowing people to engage with our colourful and varied cultural past in new and engaging ways.

Ewell EpsomCouncillor Clive Woodbridge, Chair of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council’s Community and Wellbeing Committee, said,

“I am delighted to support the launch of our latest free-to-enjoy digital tour about the Horton Light Railway at Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve. Showcasing the richness of our borough’s heritage, the tour is a great way to spend time outdoors, learning about the importance of the railway and its vital contribution to the borough’s hospital cluster.”

The Bloomberg Connects app is available for download from Google Play or the App Store.

You can also view the tour of Horton Country Park Local Nature Reserve here: https://links.bloombergconnects.org/6Ggw/175fz8wz

The Ho-Ho-Home of Christmas

Chessington World of Adventures announces Winter’s Tail event ticket release PLUS new year-round Christmas themed accommodation

The festive spirit lands at Chessington World of Adventures as it announces the much-anticipated ticket release for its popular Christmas event. And for festive fans who can’t wait until November, the attraction has launched a fully-themed Christmas hotel room bringing holiday cheer throughout the year.

The one-of-a-kind accommodation has been created in response to growing consumer demand for all things Christmas. New research from Chessington World of Adventures reveals that over a quarter of Brits (29%) wish Christmas would last longer and over a fifth (21%) who plan their Christmas experiences are doing so earlier than ever this year. The research found that spending time with family (57%), Christmas traditions (41%) and the nostalgia that Christmas brings (37%) are the things people love most about the holiday.

Our nation of Christmas-lovers admits to extending the holiday magic by keeping Christmas decorations up throughout the year, with the most popular being fairy lights (21%), Christmas tree (15%), stockings (9%) and baubles (8%).

Chessington’s Christmas Room means festive devotees no longer need to wait for the most wonderful time of the year to enjoy magical family Christmas experiences. Sleeping two adults and two children, with one large double bed and bunk beds plus ensuite bathroom, the space features seasonal details including:

      • Christmas Classics – the curated room includes twinkling decorations and garlands, floor-to-ceiling Christmas tree, Christmas crackers, hot chocolate and shortbread biscuits, and Christmas tunes jingling through the room’s speakers on arrival to create the festive mood, plus other seasonal touches.
      • Extra Christmas Trimmings – the hotel offers a special ‘Stocking Filling Service’ for parents to surprise little ones with gifts. Plus VIP experiences* include an Elf Wake-up Call and Reindeer Encounter at the zoo.
      • Christmas car parking space – the personalised reserved spot comes festively decorated to kickstart the Christmas cheer from the moment guests pull up in the car (or sleigh).

And from November, Chessington’s highly anticipated Winter’s Tail event will transform the theme park into a winter wonderland at the heart of which is the Christmas Village, where visitors will enjoy a silent disco, a meeting with Father Christmas, and a visit to the Enchanted Hollow: Toy Workshop to meet the elves who are hard at work.

Howard Ebison, Divisional Director (and Chief Christmas Cheer Officer) at Chessington World of Adventures said: “We love Christmas here at Chessington World of Adventures – so, there is ‘noel’ time like the present to unveil our Christmas Room offering year-round festive fun for families. We’ve worked hard to bottle the joy of Yuletide and create an experience like no other filled with seasonal touches for our guests to enjoy after spending a day at our park and zoo. What’s more, Winter’s Tail tickets are now on sale earlier than ever before, so families can start planning for memories to be made at Chessington this Christmas.”

Go to chessington.com/christmas to book a stay in The Christmas Room from 17th May and purchase tickets for Winter’s Tail starting from 22nd November.

Stays in The Christmas Room start from £77pp based on a family of four including breakfast and 1 day ticket pp. Add-on VIP Experiences* include…

Reindeer Encounter (from £32pp)
  • Experience the magic of Christmas with our Reindeer Encounter
  • Guests under 16 years old must be accompanied by a full paying adult
  • Minimum age 3 years
  • This is a 20-30 minute experience
 
Elf Wake-Up Call (from £25 per child)
  • Have your very own elf come knock on your hotel door in the morning! (plus each ticket will receive a little early Christmas present straight from the North Pole)
  • One ticket needs to be purchased per child in order for each child to receive a present
  • This is a time-slotted 5-10 minute experience
 
Winter’s Tail (from £32 per person)
A magical Christmas adventure awaits you and your family in the Christmas Village. Jingle away to a festive Silent Disco before you journey into a snowy woodland guided by an elf to visit Santa’s Grotto. Greeted by twinkling lights and the scent of a woodfire, join Father Christmas who is ready to hear your Christmas wishes and spread festive cheer to all who visit. Then adventure into Enchanted Hollow: Toy Workshop, where the elves are busy making gifts for Christmas, you may even receive an early Christmas gift.
 
The festive fun does not end there, enjoy everything else that Winter’s Tail has to offer, including festive trail, Christmas panto, carollers, select rides and attractions, and over 1,000 animals in Chessington Zoo and SEA LIFE. It’s the ultimate Christmas day out for families looking to make the season truly magical.
 
Visit before 24th December to enjoy all the magic of the Christmas Village – book early for the best price and availability. From 25th December, Father Christmas will head back to the North Pole with his elves. Guests can enjoy everything else that Winter’s Tail has to offer until 31st December.
 
Winter’s Tail Ultimate Christmas Package (from £140pp)
  • Have your very own dedicated elf come in straight from the North Pole to guide you around Winter’s Tail
  • Meet Father Christmas in the Christmas Village
  • Meet the reindeers in training
  • Enjoy a delicious meal in the theme park
  • Get instant VIP access to all selected rides and attractions open during your visit

Epsom & Ewell Proposal For A Three Unitary Councils

Epsom & Ewell Councillors voted to submit a final proposal for three unitary councils to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government,  At the same meeting, Councillors approved an amendment to the Council’s Four-Year Plan, replacing it with strategic priorities for 2025-2027 and aligning resources by setting up a new local government reorganisation (LGR) reserve.

Councillors agreed that strategic priorities will no longer include a proposed office move from the current Town Hall, instead relocating to the new Town Hall building and completing works to make the newer building fit for purpose for the next two to three years.

Strategic priorities agreed by the Council are:

      1. Explore future local governance e.g., a Community Council
      2. Move the old Town Hall into the existing new Town Hall
      3. Investigate future options for the existing Town Hall site and 70 East Street
      4. Carry out a review of major assets
      5. Create an Epsom Town Centre Car Park Strategy / Deliver the Hook Road (Utilities site) Car Park re-development
      6. Strategic CIL Projects
      7. Consider options for the future of Bourne Hall Museum.

surreySpeaking after the meeting, Councillor Hannah Dalton, the Leader of Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, said: “While we work towards local government reorganisation, the Council will prioritise strategic projects that can be delivered in the time available and that offer best value for our residents. Our goal is to meet the ambitious deadlines set by Government to transition to a new era of local government, whilst protecting the best interests of our local communities for the future.”

The amendment to the Council’s approved Four-Year Plan follows the directive from Government to reorganise local government across the UK, abolishing two-tier councils and replacing them with single-tier, unitary authorities. New unitary councils in Surrey will likely come into effect in April or May 2027, at which time Epsom & Ewell Borough Council (EEBC) will be dissolved.

EEBC and seven other district and borough councils in Surrey believe that the best option for residents and local businesses is to reorganise local government in Surrey into three unitary councils. This model would see Epsom & Ewell become part of an east Surrey unitary council along with Tandridge District Council, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council and Mole Valley District Council. Surrey County Council and some district and borough councils are proposing a two unitary model.

Councillor Hannah Dalton said: “Reorganising local government in Surrey into three unitary councils would emphasise alignment with established economic areas, as well as prioritising local identity and community empowerment.

Unitary councils in north, west and east Surrey would be the right sizes to improve efficiency and capacity to deliver high quality and sustainable public services, whilst meeting local needs informed by local views.

“The proposal is rooted in what local government is all about: local identity, representation and economic alignment.”

The agenda for the meeting can be read here: Epsom and Ewell Democracy

The full Council meeting can be watched here: https://www.youtube.com/@epsomandewellBC/playlists