Nine arrested in Leeds corruption probe
Amongst the nine, four Leeds City Council staff members have been arrested on suspicion of bribery offences.
So far, details are scant but an investigation is taking place into economic crime and corruption offences, with the four LCC staff members suspended while the matter is ongoing.
The arrests took place in late November and a spokesperson from West Yorkshire police was unable to comment on when the investigation will conclude.
The BBC reported that the four council staff were from the planning department.
The comment from West Yorkshire police notes: “Our Economic Crime Unit is conducting a complex investigation into reported corruption offences in West Yorkshire.
“Nine people, including four Leeds City Council staff members, were arrested between 26 and 28 November on suspicion of bribery offences.
“All nine people have been bailed pending further enquiries.”
A spokesperson for LCC said: “The council is aware of an investigation that is being carried out by West Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit.
“We can confirm that four members of council staff have been arrested.
“The staff were subsequently suspended from their roles at the council in line with our established policies and procedures.
“As the police investigation is ongoing, we are unable to comment further.”
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So now, how will leeds city council be able to process planning applications from businesses, charities, residents, and local councils etc?
That’s basically the entire planning department team that’s just gone downtown, will this lead to a backlog in getting planning issues passed?
Not amazing news for city economkc development.
Perhaps the West Yorkshire Combined Authority can step in and be given emergency powers to approve planning permission applications in Leeds?
By Dove
“The recent arrests related to bribery offences within Leeds City Council’s planning department have raised significant concerns, particularly for Drighlington, Gildersome, Pudsey, Morley, and the surrounding areas. Over recent years, these areas have seen a surge in large-scale housing developments, often in questionable locations, accompanied by excessive and disruptive roadworks and infrastructure changes.
Local businesses in Drighlington, Gildersome, Pudsey, Morley, and nearby areas have frequently been excluded from consultations on planning alterations. In some cases, they have faced decisions that seem to lack transparency or consideration for their impact on the community. This raises valid questions about the integrity of certain planning processes and whether external influences may have played a role.
Additionally, concerns have been raised about the possibility of illicit financial activities being linked to property development projects. It’s widely understood that large-scale developments can sometimes serve as a vehicle for money laundering, and this warrants thorough investigation and financial scrutiny.
While ongoing investigations are essential, transparency, accountability, and independent oversight are equally critical to restoring public confidence in local governance and planning procedures.
The communities of Drighlington, Gildersome, Pudsey, Morley, and the surrounding areas deserve clarity and answers, and it’s time for authorities to ensure these concerns are fully addressed. The police may also need to follow financial trails to ensure a complete resolution.”
Faithfully, Dr Garrick Redhid
By Dr Garrick Redhid