Highland councillor accused of faking disabled blue badges
- Published
A Highland councillor has been accused of faking disabled parking blue badges so drivers of a tour bus company she owns could use the restricted spaces.
Maxine Smith, 64, from Invergordon, represents Highland Council's Cromarty ward.
The former SNP councillor is a member of a group on the council called the Highland Alliance.
The charge alleges that photocopied and laminated badges were displayed to obtain use of disabled parking.
A solicitor tendered a not guilty plea on Ms Smith's behalf at Inverness Sheriff Court on Thursday.
Sheriff Sara Matheson fixed a trial date for 20 May.
Ms Smith has been asked for comment.
Highland Council said councillors were required to comply with codes of conduct, and were issued with guidance by the Standards Commission for Scotland.
A spokesperson added: "Any complaints about alleged breaches of the code are investigated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner and thereafter adjudicated upon by the Standards Commission."