AN inquiry into concerns over Kirklees Council’s planning department is expected to finish within days.

Huddersfield Labour MP Barry Sheerman, who has also called for an investigation into planning issues, welcomed the news.

He said: “I have had a number of constituents come to me with concerns about planning issues, many of which go back before the current council administration, and I am delighted they are being examined.

“They have assured me a full investigation is taking place.

“It is about systems rather than individuals and hopefully within a week or so we should have the findings.

“I will await them with interest.”

The inquiry was launched earlier this month after it emerged that a senior Kirklees Council planning officer had connections with a private developer.

Acting principal planning officer Hamish Gledhill was involved with developer Princegate Estates between 2006 and 2008.

He has worked for Kirklees since 2005.

Mr Sheerman has now met with the council’s chief executive Adrian Lythgo, and legal officers, over the inquiry and over his concerns about several planning matters.

The code of conduct governing council officers requires them to get prior approval before taking outside work.

Mr Sheerman added: “I was reassured by Mr Lythgo’s statements about the scale of the inquiry and the speed at which it is being conducted.’’