Councillor reported for 'planning breach'

Councillor reported for 'planning breach'

County councillor Arthur Davies

A Carmarthenshire councillor has been reported to the local government watchdog for allegedly breaching rules over a planning application for a £1m sports centre.

County councillor Arthur Davies opposed an application by Trinity College for the development at Sycamore Way in Carmarthen which was passed on Tuesday.

But it emerged on Wednesday that he had been reported to the local government ombudsman for allegedly failing to declare an interest.

It is claimed he has a relative who has an interest in property near the development site.

Councillors are required to declare an interest and take no part in any discussion, debate or vote on any issue in which they, or any member of their family have an interest

Chief executive Mark James

Mr Davies was reported to the watchdog by the authority's chief executive Mark James.

"As chief executive, if allegations of this kind are brought to my attention then I have to take the appropriate action," he said.

"I am obviously unable to comment on any particular case which is being referred to the ombudsman who deals with the behaviour of councillors.

Ultimate sanction

"However, speaking generally, all councillors sign a declaration when they are elected agreeing to abide by the National Code of Conduct for members.

"Councillors are required to declare an interest and take no part in any discussion, debate or vote on any issue in which they, or any member of their family have an interest.

"If a councillor fails to declare an interest and does try to influence a decision to the benefit of a friend or family member, for example, then it is a matter for the ombudsman initially.

"The ombudsman will consider the matter and if he considers it appropriate may refer a case to the Adjudication Panel for Wales

"The ultimate sanction in such cases rests with the National Standards Board, which has the authority if it considers it appropriate to remove a councillor from office.

"Alternatively the Ombudsman may decide to refer the matter to be dealt with by the council's standards committee."

Petition

Councillor Davies, who is independent Labour, did not attend Tuesday's meeting when the application was approved.

But he had opposed the plan on a previous occasion on the grounds it would adversely affect the amenity, parking and character of the area.

Some 120 people signed a petition opposing the application but it was passed after plans were amended to lower the height of the building.

Some schools and Carmarthen Town Council supported the application as the centre will be made available to youngsters of all ages.

College principal Medwyn Hughes said: "It will be a excellent sporting facility, and there is nothing similar anywhere west of Neath.

"It's something that there's a very definite need for in the local community and for Carmarthenshire."