Dodgy Ray digs the hole deeper.

So I wrote after the last local election about how the Tory Cllr Ray Whittingham was dodgy and how his campaign was paid for a developer and then he went straight on to the planning committee. Well a number of residents have commented have said how fishy this smells.

So I reported the matter to Wigan Council. Here is the original story. So the Council said they carried out a so called investigation. I say so called because it was either a cover up to help him or because they are incompetence to carry out anything proper.

They said that Dodgy Ray told them that the developer didn't pay him but the local Conservative Party and then they paid his election expenses. Wrong! How can I say this because I have checked the Electoral Commission website and looked at if the developer gave money to the local Conservatives and guess what? He didn't! That or they have not declared it to them which would bring their accounts into question. Mind you with his dodgy son as his agent and is an accountant too that wouldn't surprise me. So rather than just coming clean when they were caught out they have lied to try and cover their dodgy matter up and got caught again!!!

It is simply now that an independent investigator needs to take over the investigation. I have now written to the Council to demand this. If they do not then I will report this to the local ombudsman to look at the matter.

One serious thing that has occurred as well as something dodgy is because I raised the matter and informed the Council, they - the Council, didn't want to put two planning matters for Standish before the committee as this could have serious consequences for them. I have now learnt that the developer has put the applications before the Tory's Planning Inspector to hear. The probability is he will pass them and then that really will keep the flood gates open for Standish as I hear that there are a number of developers waiting for the outcome of those hearing.

Here you can see why the Corruption of this Tory Cllr in Standish has now cost people of Standish as well as him gaining himself financially.

Standish Independents Cllrs Save Fireworks Night

Cllr George and Debbie Fairhurst with Committee and player Ian Stewardson at the Club 

With Bonfire night soon approaching many residents will no doubt be going to a bonfire. One of the most popular in Standish over recent years was down at the Crown and with this being closed that is not an option.

Earlier in the year Standish Cricket Club asked the Tory Cllr Whittingham to pay for a community display with Standish Brighter borough Money. He refused to do this but as soon as the Standish Independents Cllrs were asked then they stepped up to the plate and agreed to fund the fireworks with theirs.

This will take place on Friday 4th November 2016 at 7.45 but the gates open at 6.30 and there are other attractions going on their too.

Cllr Debbie Fairhurst said, this is Standish Residents money and we are happy to support this request. Fireworks can be dangerous if people are left to their own devices and I believe in organised events as a parent. With that in mind I believe this would be great for children and families to see at the Cricket club."

Cllr George Fairhurst said, " The Cricket Club is a well used facility and whilst they obviously couldn't have a bonfire I believe that Standish Residents will be able to see a great Community Fireworks in a friendly and safe environment. By supporting the club it helps keep the residents supporting it and also the club supporting local events too. This works hand in hand with each other.".

What's happening to Standish Village Centre?

So I have learnt that there are a number of businesses up for sale in the Village.

First is La Mamma restaurant. I hear a price tag of £260,000, if there are any takers? Next across the road is Posh Frocks. There is a note in there shop window saying everything is up for sale - business and stock. Finally the computer shop has closed too and that will be a juice and snack bar.

All these businesses are in close proximity to each other and I guess parking will be an issue for all business. I heard from another shop keeper saying he is looking to move out the village centre too due to the car parking.

I came up with a solution but Wigan Council would not engage with the land owners. Standish Village Centre is dying and Wigan Council are doing nothing but giving us more houses. They need to act on this problem.