Magistrates to fight court closure plans

Rochdale Magistrates Court

A group of magistrates met with councillors recently to discuss the proposed closure of Rochdale Magistrates Court.

Following the meeting, Vivien Carter of the Rochdale Connections Trust said: “It was agreed that we must try and work together to prevent the loss of local justice within the town, not least of all were the concerns about losing a building within the central perimeter of the town – with the severe danger that it too may become derelict and be a blight on the beautiful buildings around it.

“Currently the fact that the Police Station and the Court are sited together is a great advantage, particularly in view of the fact that they are in close proximity to the bus station.

Ms Carter added: “Additionally, the cases which are prosecuted by Rochdale Council –ASBOs, some family cases, unpaid Council Tax, non-school attendance, fly tipping, litter and many others would mean the officers from the Council would have to travel to Bury to present their cases, whilst at present they can simply walk along the street.

“This would be an extra burden on council tax payers.”