South Ayrshire Council Leader Steps Aside As Recordings Assessed by Police

The leader of South Ayrshire Council, Martin Dowey, is reported to be temporarily stepping down as police assess a recording allegedly capturing him promising major contracts to friends.

The recording, leaked and passed to the Daily Mail, also reportedly features Mr Dowey describing council officials as “f*****g useless” and claiming he could sack “all the top ones”.

Mr Dowey denies any wrongdoing but is facing mounting pressure to resign from opposition councillors.

Commenting on social media, Siobhian Brown, SNP MSP for Ayr, Prestwick and Troon said:

“Given the serious nature of the allegations that have emerged over the weekend- it is only right Mr Dowey stands down as Leader while investigations continue.”

We have contacted South Ayrshire Council for comment on this development.