Councillor needs training (From Gazette)

Councillor needs training

8:30pm Wednesday 17th March 2010 in

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A COUNCILLOR has been told he needs more training after a complaint he had a prejudicial interest in a controversial planning application next to his home.

A complaint was made against Tendring district councillor Mick Skeels after he failed to leave a planning committee meeting when an application to almost double the size of Firs Holiday Park, in London Road, Little Clacton, was discussed. The Little Clacton and Weeley councillor, who lives in nearby Holland Road, asked for the application to be referred to the planning committee.

Nigel Brown, Tendring Council’s communications manager, said the complaint was considered by the council’s referrals sub-committee, which found no breach of policy, but did recommend Mr Skeels receive more guidance and training on the members’ code of conduct.

Mr Skeels did declare a personal interest in the application, but remained in the meeting during the discussion and when councillors voted on whether to pass it.

He also took part in a site visit with other councillors.

The council voted against the application in January.

Mr Skeels was unavailable for comment.