Rancour in the ranks
Council administration group fall out
ONE member has quit Falkirk Council's ruling adminstration group, while another's position has still to be determined.
Veteran councillor Jimmy Wilson, an Independent member of the SNP-led coalition, resigned over the decision to site the new Denny High School on Herbertshire Playing Fields.
And it is understood Depute Provost Billy Buchanan faces disciplinary action for failing to hold the coalition line by moving amendments to the Local and Structure Plans, as well as supporting Labour on other proposed changes.
Mr Buchanan failed to attend last week's full council meeting where the Denny High decision was made. He has spoken out against the move.
Councillor Wilson, who represents the Denny ward, said he was unable to agree with the administration's decision.
He said: "I know this area. The mine on which the playing fields are situated closed in 1959. There have been methane gas and sewage problems in the past and that is why I strongly oppose this proposal. Also, there has not been enough consultation with the community."
Debate on the school issue was delayed last week after councillors heard that Mr Buchanan had rushed home to be with his sick wife.
As Labour members revealed they had been told that Fiona Buchanan had been rushed to hospital, council leader David Alexander said he had had two phone conversations with her shortly before the meeting started.
Councillor Wilson said he had been told Councillor Buchanan had been threatened with loss of the depute provost's post if he did not back the administration
This week, Councillor Alexander confirmed Mrs Buchanan had tried to contact him before the lunch recess.
He said: "At the moment, Billy Buchanan is still depute provost and a member of the administration."
Asked why he had failed to attend the meeting, Mr Buchanan said: "I will only say at this time that I received a call my wife was taken ill and I rushed home, as anyone would."
jill.buchanan@falkirkherald.co.uk
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Weather for Falkirk
Saturday 25 May 2013
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