Public to have say on town’s court closure plans

Conservative Leader Ashley Dearnley

Deputy Council Leader Ashley Dearnley has announced today (Thursday 8 July 2010) that the council will do all it can to keep Rochdale Magistrates Court open.

The declaration comes after it was named as one of 103 courts facing closure nationwide. The Ministry of Justice claim that the workload of magistrates and county courts has decreased since the creation of Her Majesty’s Court Service in 2005, meaning many courthouses are significantly underutilised.

Councillor Dearnley states publicly that a strong response is being formulated to oppose the move, and to retain the court in Rochdale town centre.

He said: “There are many jobs at risk here, from the staff who work at the court to the other jobs that it supports in the town, including local solicitors. The alternative is that any matters to be brought before the court would be heard in Bury, which also means victims of crime would need to travel much further.

“I do not think that justice for local people and by local people can possibly be served by hearing cases outside the town, and the courts make a much needed contribution to our economy.”

People are now being asked for their views on the plans in a public consultation which ends on 15 September.

Councillor Dearnley added: “I want us to put forward a strong case for keeping local justice and retaining jobs in this borough, and whatever your view I urge everyone to have their say so we can hopefully influence the ministers who will make the final decision.”

To have your say, download the questionnaire from www.justice.gov.uk and click on consultations. Alternatively, Email brendan.beckett@hmcourts-service.gsi.gov.uk or phone 0161 240 5956.