Reaction to News of Cllr Juneja’s Departure

Published on: 18 Aug, 2014
Updated on: 22 Aug, 2014

Cllrs Mansbridge & Juneja in their council robes

Cllrs Mansbridge and Juneja in their council robes.

The following reactions to this afternoon’s news, that GBC’s lead councillor for planning has been asked to step down by her leader Cllr Stephen Mansbridge, have been received.

Caroline Reeves, the leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Millmead said: “The Lib Dem group are pleased that a statement has finally been issued by the Conservative leader and understand his concern to do what is best for Cllr Juneja.

“Very few people outside the Conservative group know the detail of the case, the residents’ involvement or the conduct of the police. As has been said, everyone is innocent until proved guilty.

“Our main concern now must be the accomplishment of a sound Local Plan without distraction. It will indeed be a difficult task for anyone to take on, and we hope that openness and transparency will be at the forefront of the work being done through the rest of the consultation period, the consideration of the comments received and then moving forward to the final Local Plan document.”

Harry Aldridge the prospective parliamentary candidate for Ukip said: “Cllr Mansbridge has made the right decision, finally. Those in public office must have the confidence of the electorate and, now that charges have been brought, it is right that Cllr Juneja steps down while the court case runs its course.

“It is slightly distasteful that Cllr Mansbridge seeks to overlook the issue of probity in public life citing her good work and the need to ‘steer a Local Plan through to successful adoption’.

“We do not need the distraction of this story further complicating such a contentious issue, and perhaps he might use this opportunity to do more to address the concerns of residents.”

Susan Parker leading organiser of the Guildford Greenbelt Group (GGG) said: “GGG has had no involvement in the police investigation…

“The outcome of the case is a matter for the courts and should not be influenced or prejudiced in any way.

“As a matter of law all councillors and officials are obliged to act in accordance with the seven Nolan principles of public life, which are Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership.”

Other reactions may be added to this report as they are received.

Responses to Reaction to News of Cllr Juneja’s Departure

Jim Allen Reply

August 18, 2014 at 8:59 pm

What a mess. What can one say? Personally I think it is the right thing to stand down as lead member for planning. Arguments could forever rage as to when is the right time.

I hope the matter will be settled in a manner befitting our ‘proud judicial systems’ rather than the bear garden presently displayed.
David Davies Reply

August 20, 2014 at 5:17 pm

The decision by Cllr Mansbridge is sensible, although it should have been made sooner. What is not so sensible is for the leader himself to take on the planning role. He should be above the day to day issues of this department.

Another individual should be appointed, to leave the leader separate from the process.

It is disturbing that Cllr Juneja did not offer to stand aside, while the legal process continues. Consequently the whole business makes the council look very foolish.

Incidentally am I alone in thinking there is a nasty smell behind the rapid departure of the former head of planning Ms Humphrey. The leader should review the resignation of Ms Humphrey as a matter of urgency.
Jules Cranwell Reply

September 8, 2014 at 10:54 am

Has Cllr Mansbridge really taken direct charge, given Ms. Juneja remains a councillor, and a member of the planning committee? Has anything really changed?