Former Council Leader Reinstated After Appealing Suspension

The former Leader of Harborough District Council has been reinstated into the authority’s ruling Conservative group, after successfully appealing a six month suspension.

Cllr Neil Bannister was handed the sanction last month, after concerns were expressed about a letter he sent to Leicestershire County Council regarding the Lutterworth East housing development.

He told Hfm: “I am relieved at the outcome but had every confidence that everything would work out.

“It has been a difficult and challenging time for me and I am very grateful for the messages of support from friends and supporters who stood by me.”

The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Area Management Executive of the Conservative party, who conducted the appeal told Hfm: “The Appeal by Neil Bannister has after very careful consideration of the rules been Upheld and Councillor Bannister has been reinstated into the Conservative Group on Harborough District Council.”