The Ministry of Justice is consulting on proposals to close 21 underused courts.
The Ministry of Justice is consulting on proposals to close 21 underused courts. The courts do not have suitable facilities for victims and witnesses, and many have no disability access.
Justice secretary Jack Straw says: “I do not believe it would provide good value for money to bring these buildings up to the required standard at the taxpayers’ expense.”
The courts—Leigh County Court in the North West and 20 magistrates’ courts—are situated across England. Following an earlier consultation, the Ministry has decided to close Nelson County Court in Lancashire.
