The Shadow Executive meeting on Tuesday 10 November approved a new visual identity for West Surrey Council, designed to reflect the ambition and energy of the new council as it prepares for vesting day on 1 April 2027.

The new logo features a swan with wings held aloft, symbolising the rivers, waterways, and wetlands connecting communities across West Surrey. The swan is framed by a subtle heraldic-inspired shield, drawing on the area’s historic civic and heraldic traditions.

Earlier in 2026, over 2,500 residents, staff, councillors, businesses, and community organisations completed a survey to help shape the council’s visual identity. Respondents highlighted the importance of nature, including wildlife, waterways, and countryside, to be featured in the new brand. The swan was chosen as a heritage-inspired symbol, recognising its connection to local identities and existing council coat of arms.

The design also reflects West Surrey’s history and heritage through the heraldic shield framing the swan. The colours navy blue and gold were selected to link to West Surrey’s heritage, nodding to the blue and yellow from the Surrey County flag while maintaining a modern and accessible look.

Council name and legal status

At the July 2026 meeting of the West Surrey Shadow Authority, councillors voted to change the new council’s name from West Surrey Council to West Surrey & South Middlesex Council, recognising the historic identity of Spelthorne, which was part of Middlesex until 1965.

However, the government declined to amend the relevant legislation to reflect this change, advising that a legislative change was not the appropriate route and suggesting the authority seek legal advice under the Local Government Act 1972.

Following further legal advice, the authority will continue to be referred to as West Surrey Council in its branding and communications until after vesting day on 1 April 2027, when it becomes a fully constituted local authority and can consider changing its legal name.

Leader’s statement

“The West Surrey Council logo captures a vibrant, proud identity, steeped in heritage and shaped by the people living and working in the area. It reflects the character, strengths and shared ambitions of our communities, while creating a clear and recognisable identity for the new council.

I would like to thank the thousands of residents, businesses, councillors, staff and community representatives who contributed to the survey and helped shape a visual identity for West Surrey Council that reflects the people and places it serves.

The Shadow Authority voted in July to seek a change of name from government to recognise the historic identity of South Middlesex. However, it has become clear that this cannot be achieved through the legislative route we requested. Following legal advice, we will therefore proceed as West Surrey Council as we prepare for Vesting Day.

While this is disappointing news, the new council will proudly serve communities right across the area, including Spelthorne, and the heritage, history and identity of all our towns and villages will continue to be valued and celebrated. Our focus now is on creating a strong, financially sustainable council that delivers excellent services for residents from day one.

My thanks also go to our talented in-house designers who created the new brand using their skills, creativity and local knowledge, making best use of existing resources and at no additional cost to taxpayers.”

Phased introduction of new brand

The Shadow Executive agreed a phased approach to introducing the new brand. The identity will be rolled out gradually, with most existing signage, vehicles, printed materials, and other assets replaced through planned renewal programmes wherever possible, rather than being discarded early.

Assets that must legally display the new council’s identity, or which are key points of contact for residents, will be prioritised first. This approach aims to minimise costs, reduce unnecessary waste, and ensure value for money, supporting a smooth transition to West Surrey Council.

Residents shaping the future

The new brand is one of several ways residents are helping to shape West Surrey’s future. Residents and local organisations have been invited to share their views on the new council’s priorities and plans. Feedback will help inform the Council’s Corporate Strategy and focus areas in the years ahead. The survey closes on Sunday 15 November at 11.59pm.

Source: Spelthorne Borough Council news