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Cheshire East faces police probe over tampering of air quality data

Cheshire East Council is to be investigated by police following allegations that air quality data collected by the local authority had been deliberately altered.  

Back in August, the organisation apologised after incorrect statistics about air quality in the area had been submitted to Defra and admitted that there had been “deliberate and systematic manipulation” of machines used to take the readings.

And now, the council has revealed that Cheshire Constabulary has been given the data and will be formally looking into the matter.

Cheshire East explained that this was a result of the council’s ongoing work to address the concerns “thoroughly and transparently”.

On top of that, the council has referred concerns about the allocation of public funds in making a grant to Berkeley Academy as well as concerns about land purchasing to the police.

Cllr Rachel Bailey, its leader, stated: “It is vital that these serious matters are dealt with fully and that if there has been any wrongdoing it is exposed. While a police investigation is a serious matter, I would like to reassure residents that the council itself has brought these matters forward in order to put things right.

“We will ensure that council services continue to be delivered to the high standards that residents have come to expect.

“As these matters are now subject to criminal investigation, we are unable to give more information at this time.”

Today’s news comes as the council prepares to make a decision over whether to dismiss two of its top-level officials, CEO Mike Suarez and Bill Norman, the director of legal services, following allegations of misconduct.

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