Council boss facing claim

Cannock's top environment councillor is being investigated by his own authority after claims he damaged part of Cannock Chase. He is accused of using a JCB to clear land at the back of his house.

Councillor Danny Davies, cabinet member for environment at the district council, is facing an inquiry by environment officials over the alleged work behind his garden in Kingsley Wood Road, near Rugeley.

The land is part of the Cannock Chase and is classed as being within the area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB).

Councillor Davies, who serves on a joint committee in charge of managing the Cannock Chase AONB, has denied any wrongdoing.

The county councillor and fire authority member said the complaint was "mischief making" and the work was done to clear away bracken and fallen trees.

It is claimed several trees were uprooted which were protected by Tree Preservation Orders but Councillor Davies denied he had cut down protected trees.

If any of the trees on Councillor Davies' land were protected he would need permission from the council before starting any work.

Councillor Davies said: "A lot of the trees were brought down in the storms we had in January. All I've done is clear the bracken and the fallen trees." He added: "I think this is mischief making by someone."