Serious management issues behind decision to send chief executive on gardening leave (From The Northern Echo)

Serious management issues behind Hambleton and Richmondshire council chief executive's leave

2:38pm Tuesday 21st February 2012 in News By Andy Walker

AN award-winning council chief executive was sent home on gardening leave due to "serious management issues", it has been revealed.

The announcement was made by Hambleton Council leader Neville Huxtable at a meeting today.

Peter Simpson, chief executive of Hambleton and Richmondshire district councils, was escorted from council offices at the Civic Centre, in Northallerton, on Friday and is on paid leave-of absence from his job.

He has been placed on “gardening leave” rather than being suspended.

Coun Neville Huxtable, leader of Hambleton District Council, paid tribute to Mr Simpson's work in a meeting of the full council this afternoon.

He said: “We have been led to take this course of action after concerns regarding serious management issues came to light.

"However, I am unable to go into any more detail at this moment in time because of employment contractual arrangements.

“Peter is a Hambleton District Council employee, so this decision was made by Hambleton.”

He said advice and assistance was also given by the Local Government Association.

Mr Simpson has been chief executive of Hambleton District Council for 15 years - and a shared chief executive with Richmondshire District Council for the last four years. Coun Huxtable added: "During his time with Hambleton he has progressed this council to its present sound financial position and I have valued his guidance and advice during my two years as leader.

“We must not forget Peter’s contributions to this authority and to the shared services work with Richmondshire which has already realised £2.5m in savings and brought us national awards and accolades. We expect that excellent shared serviced work will continue.

“The outstanding service Hambleton provides for its customers will continue - we are very positive about the future and what this council will continue to achieve.”

Hambleton members approved a recommendation from cabinet members that deputy chief executive Phil Morton be appointed acting chief executive - just of Hambleton council - until further notice.

An announcement on the equivalent position in Richmondshire is expected shortly.