POLICE have launched a formal investigation into allegations that Cheshire East Council air quality data was deliberately manipulated.
It is one of three matters regarding the council that the Cheshire force is now looking into after being called in by the local authority.
A council statement revealed that it had also referred concerns “about the allocation of public funds” in the making of a grant to Berkeley Academy in Wistaston, as well as concerns over land purchases, to the constabulary.
In its statement Cheshire East said the decision to refer the air quality data issue to the police was “a result of the council’s on-going work to address these concerns thoroughly and transparently.”
Council leader Rachel Bailey, pictured, said: “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.”