A LABOUR councillor has lodged an official complaint against the Middlewich Town Council clerk, accusing him of inaction over a number of issues.

Cllr David Williams notified clerk Jonathan Williams of his complaint after GHA Coaches entered administration earlier this month, resulting in the brief loss of the vital 42 service to Leighton Hospital and nearby schools.

Cheshire East Council has since enlisted the help of D&G Bus, but Cllr Williams says Middlewich’s bus issues could have been addressed by the town council earlier.

Cllr Williams said: “I am incensed by the way this has just been allowed to happen, at least in part due to the inaction of the town council. There has obviously been trouble brewing for a while with GHA.

“I raised an urgent motion in December when the popular X20 service was axed, asking for a meeting to be arranged between the Middlewich and Winsford town councils, and Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester borough councils.

“This motion was unanimously passed by my fellow councillors and the onus then fell upon the town clerk to enact the wishes of the council. However, despite my chasing on numerous occasions – and being assured by the clerk it was ‘a priority’ – absolutely nothing was done.”

Cllr Williams also alleges that this inaction has been a consistent issue since his election to Middlewich Town Council in May last year.

“For me personally, it affects my reputation because I have told residents I am seeking solutions in good faith through the council, but I am being let down.

“Obviously the real sufferers are residents, who see no improvements in their town, yet more problems and disruption to their day to day lives.

“I feel I’m left with no option but to take this course of action against the clerk.”

Pam Farrell, town mayor, and Bill Walmsley, chair of the council's personnel committee, said: "Middlewich Town Council would always treat with concern any complaints received from members or residents and takes any complaints seriously.

"However, it is a pity to air these matters in public before a full investigation has been carried out.

"The council also realises that it has a duty of care to its employees and we are currently exercising that duty.

"A full investigation is being undertaken and corrective action will be taken if deemed necessary as a result of this investigation."

Jonathan Williams declined to comment.