Councillor David Brown forced to step down as deputy leader

The deputy leader of Cheshire East Council has been forced to step down whilst a police investigation is carried out into the Council allocating public funds for a school car park.

Last month Councillor David Brown, ward member for Congleton East, decided to stand down as Portfolio Holder for Transport and infrastructure after Cheshire Constabulary confirmed they were looking into concerns about the Council's allocation of a £70,000 grant to Berkeley Academy in Wistaston for a car park.

However, the Council Leader has now decided David Brown must also resign from his role as deputy leader with immediate effect.

Councillor Rachel Bailey, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "I appreciate that Councillor David Brown took the decision to stand aside from cabinet member responsibilities for the highways and infrastructure portfolio.
"I have now taken the decision that he is to stand aside from his duties as deputy leader of the council for the duration of the investigation into the granting of funds to Berkeley Academy, with immediate effect.

"The role of deputy leader includes covering the responsibilities of the leader of the council where and when I am not available. This may well include dealing with matters relating to the highways and infrastructure portfolio, which would put Cllr Brown into an untenable position. I will appoint a temporary deputy in due course.

"Councillor Brown will not receive the additional deputy leader's allowance during this time and will not sit on cabinet."

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Cheshire East Council, David Brown