CHESHIRE Police is set to launch a formal investigation into allegations of air quality data manipulation by Cheshire East Council.

Borough councillors were called to an emergency meeting on Tuesday morning by leader Cllr Rachel Bailey, after which the police announced the imminent investigation.

In another development on Tuesday, deputy leader Cllr David Brown stood down from his role as cabinet member for highways and infrastructure pending an inquiry into a £70,000 grant given to Berkeley Academy.

A police spokesman said: “A meeting has now taken place with representatives from Cheshire East Council, who had raised their concerns in relation to allegations of manipulated air quality data.

“Having carefully reviewed all the information, we can now confirm that there are sufficient grounds to proceed with a formal investigation.”

In July, the council reported that incorrect information had been sent to the Government in 2012, 2013 and 2014.

A CEC spokesman said: “This [investigation] is a result of the council’s ongoing work to address these concerns thoroughly and transparently.

“In addition, the council has referred concerns about allocation of public funds in making a grant to Berkeley Academy [in Wistaston] and concerns about land purchases to the police.

“Police have now confirmed that they will be investigating.”

Cllr Bailey 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.”

Following the announcement on Tuesday, Cllr David Brown resigned from his post as cabinet member for highways and infrastructure, saying he would be stepping down until the investigation into the Berkeley Academy grant has concluded.

He remains a councillor and deputy leader of the council.

What do you make of recent events at CEC? Let us know in the comments, or email yourviews@guardiangrp.co.uk