Arrests made over £8m Whiterigg development

A COUNCILLOR arrested in a corruption probe today vowed to clear his name as it emerged another politician is also facing charges.

West Lothian councillor Gordon Beurskens, 47, and his business associate Peter McMahon, 60, were charged yesterday following an

investigation into alleged planning irregularities surrounding an 8 million development.

The Evening News can reveal that a third man, understood to be another councillor, has also been detained and questioned in relation to the same inquiry and reports are to be submitted to the procurator fiscal.

Councillor Beurskens described the charges today as "nonsense".

The Action To Save St John's Hospital councillor, from Longridge, has continually denied any wrongdoing over the allegations.

He said: "I can't really say much regarding the charges but we will be defending the matter vociferously.

"I'm glad it has reached a conclusion because this has gone on for too long, but it is a nonsense, utter nonsense."

Mr McMahon added: "Anything that has been said against me will be vigorously denied in court. I have no comment to make."

Cllr Beurskens and Mr McMahon, director of Aftondale Ltd which was behind the development, have been charged under the Public Bodies Corrupt Practices Act.

An investigation was launched into alleged corruption after the development at Whiterigg in East Whitburn for a hotel, 100 houses and a care home was given the go-ahead by councillors last November, despite recommendations by planning officers to refuse it.

A police statement said: "Lothian and Borders Police can confirm that two men have been arrested and charged in relation to an inquiry into alleged offences under the Public Bodies Corrupt Practices Act.

"Reports will be submitted to the procurator fiscal in relation to the men, aged 60 and 47, who have addresses in West Lothian."

A West Lothian Council spokesman said: "As this is a police matter it is not appropriate to comment."