THE COUNCIL has rushed to distance itself from a disgraced former councillor, and denied that he had any undue influence on planning decisions.

Suresh Kumar, 44, of Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park, was was found guilty of corruption at Southwark Crown Court on Monday (January 18) after a two month trial.

Mr Kumar was caught on video tape red-handed as he offered to influence a planning decision in the favour of two developers, during an undercover surveillance sting organised by a Sunday newspaper.

He was sentenced to 12 months in prison and banned from holding any public office for five years.

A Redbridge Council spokesperson said: "The London Borough of Redbridge notes the guilty verdict in the trial of former Redbridge councillor, Suresh Kumar, on a charge related to corruption and planning.

“Mr Kumar ceased to be a councillor in 2006 and we have no reason to believe that he improperly influenced the outcome of any planning decision.

“The importance of honesty and trust in council decision-making is emphasised to all members of the council when they are first elected, and this is clearly stated in the members' code of conduct. “Compulsory training has been implemented for members involved in considering planning and licensing applications to ensure they are fully aware of their legal responsibilities.”