The findings of the independent probe into the Lyme Green scandal have been released for the first time.

Cheshire East council have repeatedly refused to release the full Designated Independent Persons report into the botched bid to build a waste station in 2011.

But the authority this morning published a 26-page summary of the document, produced by Interim Chief Executive Kim Ryley, which they say clearly sets out how and why project failed.

Bosses say they hope the release of the summary will help the council “move on” from the episode which they say has “tainted” their reputation among residents.

Amongst the DIP's key findings are that:

  • A decision to “speed-up” the project timetable set in motion a chain of events that eventually led to its failure.
  • Management of the project was “confused and not robust”
  • Rules and processes were not followed by several officers who “cut-corners” to save time.
  • Cabinet members and councillors were not informed about what was going on

Kim Ryley, the council's Interim Chief Executive who wrote the summary said: “This easy to read document sets out the key events and decisions in relation to Lyme Green. It also reveals the DIP’s findings on each of the specific allegations that were made about the actions of the individuals involved.

Campaigners against Lyme Green claim victory
Campaigners against Lyme Green claim victory
 

“My summary report makes clear the view of the DIP that poor project management, and a lack of care and diligence over the badly handled related procurement processes, caused the failure of the project.

“To ensure its authenticity, the summary quotes extensively and directly from the DIP’s report itself. It provides only the minimum of narrative comment necessary to ensure a well structured understanding of the events that took place, of their implications, and of their consequences – both for the Council and for some of the key individuals involved.”

At a press conference at the council's HQ in Sandbach this morning, it was also revealed the council are in talks with furniture store Arighi Bianchi with a view to them using the Lyme Green site as a distribution centre.