THE former head of public protection at Warrington Borough Council has been confirmed as the new chief of staff for the office of the police and crime commissioner for Cheshire.

Peter Astley will step up to the role – which has a minimum salary of £75,000 — following a 'rigorous recruitment process' where he was graded as the highest scoring candidate. 

But the decision was made despite the fact Mr Astley was not recommended by the police and crime panel.

David Keane, police and crime commissioner for Cheshire, said: "Peter Astley is a high achieving and dedicated senior leader in the public sector who has a wealth of experience at leading high profile and important regulatory services such as planning, licensing and environmental health. 

"Peter not only has exceptional leadership skills, that are directly relevant to the role of chief of staff, but also has considerable experience in working closely with the police at a local, regional, national and international level.

"I am aware that following their hearing the members of police and crime panel in attendance made the decision not to recommend appointment.

"However, on this occasion the panel’s recommendation is against the outcome and findings of a robust recruitment exercise."

Mr Keane added that the decision to appoint Mr Astley was made after 'very positive feedback' from high-ranking officials including the chief constable and chief fire officer.

Mr Astley was selected for the role after the force received 11 applications for the job with five people shortlisted to complete a personality questionnaire, stakeholder panel and a competency-based interview.

In a letter to the chairman of the police and crime panel cllr Howard Murray prior to the official appointment, Mr Keane outlined how some of the candidates were known to some people involved in the recruitment process.

He said: “Throughout the process those involved at the shortlisting, stakeholder panel and interview stage were asked to declare prior knowledge of any of the candidates.

“This was applicable to a number of those supporting the process and the panel may wish to be aware that I declared as having previous knowledge of Mr Astley in a professional capacity from his time as a senior manager at Warrington Borough Council.”

Mr Keane, who also works as a borough councillor for the Penketh and Cuerdley ward, previously held the role of portfolio holder for environment and public protection.

During his time at the council, Mr Astley worked as the head of public protection.

Mr Keane was subject to some criticism earlier this year after he appointed Sareda Dirir, who he had known for 20 years, as his new deputy.