Former Stafford Council leader will not face criminal charges

The Crown Prosecution Service said no further action would be taken against the 63-year-old after a year-long police investigation.

In a short statement, Mr Heenan said: "I am relieved that the long and extensive investigation has resulted in no action being taken."

The Conservative councillor holds some high-profile business and charitable posts and in February last year made an apology to councillors saying he misunderstood the regulations by not declaring them all.

The Localism Act 2011 made it a criminal offence for a councillor not to declare their financial interests.

Mr Heenan stood down as leader earlier this month and will not stand in the May election, bringing an end to more than 30 years in public life.

The chartered solicitor intends to spend more time enjoying his retirement.

Detective Inspector Andy Kelsall, senior fraud and financial investigating officer from Staffordshire Police's major and organised crime department, said: "Following a complaint from a member of the public, a detailed and comprehensive investigation was carried out by Staffordshire Police concerning the conduct of a senior elected member of Stafford Borough Council, who had allegedly failed to disclose pecuniary interests under the Localism Act 2011.

"A file was submitted to the CPS complex case unit and following a review the CPS has concluded no further action will be taken against this individual.

"All parties connected to this matter have been informed of the CPS decision."

Mr Heenan was shown overwhelming levels of support by fellow councillors after he survived a vote of no confidence in his leadership of the council early last year triggered by calls for him to quit from four councillors.

Mr Heenan's updated records show he holds 10 'employment' roles and various additional charitable and public body posts.

The row centred on failing to declare the fact he was company secretary for Ise Estates Ltd, Ise Trading Ltd and Greatrex Ltd.

Councillor Patrick Farrington has been chosen as the new leader for the Stafford Conservative group but he won't become council leader until ratification at a meeting of the council next month.

Until then the council will be led by current deputy Councillor Mike Smith.

Last year former Dorset County Council leader Spencer Flower was charged with three counts under the Localism Act.

He is to stand trail over allegations he failed to disclose all his financial interests when participating and voting during a meeting.