As reported in the Sidmouth Herald, 11th May 2014, charges against Newton Poppleford Councillor Graham Salter,  for alleged non-declaration of a disclosable pecuniary interest (DPI) concerning the controversial King Alfred Way planning application , were dismissed by the police.

Nevertheless, Councillor Salter has been called to appear before an EDDC disciplinary committee tomorrow morning (see http://www.eastdevon.gov.uk/standards_hearing_sub_committee_agenda_150514.pdf )

This may well fuel the widespread suspicion that the allegations against him are linked to his vigorous criticism of the process by which the Clinton Devon Estates application was brought forward.

Some have also pointed out that the requirement to declare a DPI was intended to prevent councillors from making personal gain from planning decisions. As the Herald report mentions, who exactly brought the charges against Councillor Salter, remains unclear.

This Thursday’s Standards Sub-Committee minutes are awaited with interest.