Criminal investigation launched into Cheshire East fitness contracts

Cheshire Police have launched a criminal investigation into the awarding of council contracts to a firm run by the outgoing leader’s physiotherapist.

According to a Macclesfield Express report, officers from Cheshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit say they have commenced a criminal investigation into ‘misconduct in public office’.

They say it comes as a result of information received about Cheshire East Council and the awarding of contracts.

Three contracts worth up to £156,000 to run fitness sessions in schools and community centres were issued to Core Fit after the council waived its normal procurement rules.

Counc Michael Jones

Councillor Jones announced his resignation as leader of the council earlier this month staying it was a result of ‘in-fighting’ in his Conservative party.

He has always denied any involvement in the issuing of the contracts.

A spokesman said: “Cheshire Constabulary has commenced a criminal investigation into misconduct in a public office as a result of information received about Cheshire East Council and the award of contracts.”

The Macclesfield Express report says neither Coun Jones, nor the council, could not be contacted for comment.

The council’s chief executive Mike Suarez has stated that work by the internal audit team so far had failed to show any wrongdoing – so there was no need for an external investigation.

He said the internal audit team was continuing to look into the matter and would report back to the Audit and Governance Committee.

Earlier this month a council spokesman said that the council was working with its partners to look into the matters.

Amanda Morris

Amanda Morris has been unavailable for comment.

Source: Macclesfield Express