We regularly survey residents in the borough, face to face by independent researchers, about their attitudes to their local area, council and council services. Over a thousand local people are interviewed in their homes and public places ensuring that the opinions of a broad mix of residents are collected. We have also surveyed young people between the ages of 11 and 17.

2024 survey

The 2024 survey was delivered using a face-to-face interview approach, with a representative sample of 1,009 residents. Interviews were completed between 27 August and 25 September 2024 and the survey was conducted by an independent research agency, Enventure.

The 2024 survey has seen increases in satisfaction levels in all areas compared with the previous survey in 2021. Overall satisfaction with Merton Council and the way it runs things increased from 61% in 2021 to 82% and is significantly higher than the national average of 55%. Two-thirds (66%) of respondents agreed that Merton Council provides value for money, which is a significant increase from 40% in 2021 and higher than the national average of 38%. Being kept informed by the council is important for just over four in five respondents (83%) saying they believe they are kept informed by Merton Council. Almost three in five (58%) respondents said they speak positively about Merton Council.

Views of the council have largely improved since the 2021 survey. The most significant improvement is in relation to how efficient and well run the council is. In 2021, 61% of respondents said a great deal or to some extent, which has now increased to 84%. Another significant increase is the view that Merton Council is making the local area a better place for people to live. This increased from 65% in 2021 to 83%. In respect to council services, satisfaction levels have increased since 2021 and in most cases are better than the national average. Parks, playgrounds and open spaces, and waste collections continue to rank the highest by respondents.

Good public transport and parks & open spaces are what respondents value the most about living in Merton. The top three improvements that respondents want to see are cleanliness of streets and town centres, more affordable housing and less traffic in Merton.

Previous surveys

Contact us

Consultation and Community Engagement,
Merton Civic Centre,
London Road
Morden,
SM4 5DX

Tel: 020 8545 3896
Email: getinvolved@merton.gov.uk