Manager goes after contracts revelation

A LEEDS City Council manager is leaving the authority after it emerged lucrative security contracts for public events were awarded to a company she runs.

Events Manager Sylvia McCann has agreed “voluntary severance” after 17 years with the council.

The move came after an internal investigation was carried out because thousands of pounds of contracts for security at events such as Leeds Party In The Park and Leeds Pride went to her firm, Controlled Space Ltd.

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A council spokeswoman said: “The council has investigated issues raised regarding Ms McCann and is looking at whether any lessons can be learned.

“She has never been suspended. However, we have agreed with Ms McCann that she will leave Leeds City Council at the end of the month.”

Ms McCann, who is understood to be on long-term sick leave, played no part in the tendering process however the council spokeswoman admitted it “could be argued” that she was able to influence the number of security staff employed.

The council’s investigation was started after concerns were raised about a potential conflict of interest.

The authority said there was no police investigation.

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The spokeswoman said Ms McCann declared her involvement with the company from the outset.

Controlled Space was also used for the Christmas 2007 festive lights switch-on, and the spokeswoman said “a wider contract covering all LCC events was awarded via tender in June 2008”. This is due to expire in June 2011.

Ms McCann said: “In accordance with Leeds City Council policy I disclosed my role at Controlled Space Limited to Leeds City Council and I have not participated or had any involvement in any dealings between Controlled Space Limited and Leeds City Council.

“A settlement satisfactory to both parties has been agreed and it is a term of the settlement that no further comment be made.”