Altrincham County Court and Trafford Magistrates’ Court are facing closure after being identified as “
underused and poor quality” by thegovernment.
The Washway Road courts are among 17 court buildings in the North West – and 91 across England and Wales – recommended for closure as part of a national consultation on the court and tribunal estate.
Courts Minister, Shailesh Vara, today announced a 12-week consultation into the proposals, to begin tomorrow and last until October 8.
Under the proposals, cases currently heard on Washway Road would transfer to Manchester and Salford Magistrates’ Court, in the city centre.
Below: Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court
In a written statement, Vara said the service’s estate was “underused” and cost the taxpayer about £500m every year.
He said better access to justice could only be provided if “difficult decisions” were taken to reduce the cost of the estate and reinvest the savings.
“Last year over a third of all courts and tribunals were empty for more than 50% of their available hearing time,” he added.
“The buildings being consulted on represent 16% of hearing rooms across the estate which are, on average, used for only a third of their available time.
“That is equivalent to fewer than two out of five days in a week.”
It’s likely that a number of jobs would be lost or deployed should the courts be closed.
To comment on the proposals, call 0161 240 5021 or email estatesconsultation@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk.
