Newsletter - Thu 24 Aug, 2023

In this issue...

• Details of allowances paid to councillors last year have been published by Reigate & Banstead Borough Council (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre) and Surrey County Council (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre). We've crunched the numbers and put together a combined list for those representing wards and divisions within Reigate & Banstead (some serve on both councils).

Also...

• The annual New Music Fest takes place this weekend, Saturday 26 - Monday 28 August at Old Reigatian RFC, offering over 40 live acts, in aid of local homeless charity Renewed Hope. "Come and enjoy fantastic music, food, drink, stalls, free camping, a dog show, activities, displays and loads of space for the kids to run around, all for a price that you won’t find at Glastonbury", says the website (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre) which has more info and tickets.

• Work by gas company SGN which has closed one lane in part of Reigate's High Street should be over no later than the end of Friday, according to the county's roadworks map (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre).

• The Daily Express published a piece on Saturday comparing Reigate and Redhill from a property buyer's perspective, noting the difference between the average price in Reigate (£986k) and in Redhill (£536k). An estate agent described Reigate as "characterful" and having a "trendy" high street, while Redhill was said to be "up and coming" having seen "a wealth of rejuvenation". The article is here (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre).

• Reigate & Banstead Borough Council says (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre) it sent out e-mail versions of its annual voter canvass at 2pm on Monday, for residents whose e-mail address it holds. More information about the process is here (S'ouvre dans une nouvelle fenêtre).

Councillor allowances last year, 2022-23

Figures for councillors' allowances for the financial year 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023 have been published.

The basic allowance at Reigate & Banstead Borough Council was £5,783, while at Surrey County Council the figure was £13,120. The allowances aim to compensate councillors for their time, and help with incidental costs such as the use of their homes and phones, and any meeting room hire.

Special responsibility allowances were also paid to individuals such as cabinet/executive members, some committee roles, the mayor and deputy mayor, and group leaders.

As in previous years, some councillors served on both authorities so earned allowances from both.

The eight highest totals, for borough and county representatives in Reigate & Banstead, were: