On March 10 2026, Elmbridge Borough Council launched its 2026/27 Enterprise Elmbridge Action Plan to support local shops and create jobs in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. The project aims to help the community’s high streets stay busy and successful over the next year by investing in the local economy.
Walton-on-Thames is one of four locations in the borough that uses a business-led investment scheme, known as a Business Improvement District (BID), to fund town centre improvements, local events, and safety projects. Alongside Esher, Cobham, and Weybridge, this allows shop owners and employers to have a direct say in how the area is improved for residents and visitors.
A major part of the new plan focuses on the evening economy by supporting restaurants, pubs, and leisure venues. The council wants to encourage more people to visit the town centre after dark to help these businesses grow and stay competitive against national economic pressures.
The borough currently has 8,485 businesses, which is the highest number of any area in Surrey. Councillor Kirsty Hewens, Portfolio Holder for Enterprise, Parking and the Local Economy, explained that the council is taking direct action to back these employers and help more new companies start up each year.
To keep high streets safe and welcoming, the council is working with Surrey Police to tackle anti-social behaviour. The council’s beautification efforts also include adding new public art, such as a new mural in Walton, to make the town a better destination for everyone.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
