Council says sorry over Warren’s ban

AN apology from Oldham Council is on its way to an outspoken Failsworth resident after he complained about council procedure.

Warren Bates, from Stanhope Way, was banned from attending area committee meetings back in March, following concerns about his behaviour.

Minutes from the private meeting held to discuss his behaviour revealed councillors and council staff had discussed giving him an Anti Social Behaviour Order (ASBO).

A six-month ban was issued instead.

Mr Bates said he was shocked to discover he had been considered for an ASBO.

He said writing to the Ombudsman was a way of clearing his name.

He added: “I’ve been worried, this has been hanging over me.

“As a council encouraging openness and transparency, I’m absolutely shocked and gobsmaked that I’ve been treated in this way.

“Even to identify me with street criminals by referring to an ASBO, I’m surprised they have gone this far.

“I had no way of appealing and there was no advice given.

“I’m an honourable, lawful citizen, and Failsworth comes first. My character was at stake.”

Paul Entwistle, the council’s borough solicitor, originally wrote to Mr Bates after concerns about his behaviour were raised.

The letter said the 69-year-old had refused to respect requests by the chairman and others to control his behaviour which had a significant impact on the meeting.

Mr Bates wrote to the Local Government Ombudsman after sending numerous letters to Oldham Council about the ban, including asking for an appeals procedure to begin — and getting no response.

Now, investigator Antony Wall has told Mr Bates that the council will write and apologise for their failings and confirm that he can attend meetings.

The council will also ensure that due process is followed in future where allegations are made against an individual, and ensure appropriate records of public meetings are held.

Emma Alexander, Oldham Council’s executive director for performance, services and capacity, said: “The council has accepted the recommendations made by the Local Government Ombudsman regarding the complaint made by Warren Bates.

“We have already contacted Mr Bates confirming that he can now attend public meetings.
“We will also be responding soon with a written apology, as recommended by the Ombudsman.

“Oldham Council took this action in good faith to tackle the problem of repeated disruptive behaviour at a public meeting.

“We remain fully committed to our responsibility to ensure that all members of the public attending a democratic forum such as this have a fair and equal opportunity to express their views.”