Sweeping closures of local courts
Whilst it has been known for some times that many local courts would be closed as part of cost cutting measures, the full extent has now been made clear and the changes are nothing short of drastic. It has now been confirmed that 93 Magistrates Courts and 49 County Courts will close and the government states that these closures will save an estimated £41.5 million, although £22 million has apparently been earmarked for improvements and modernisation of other courts.
It is believed that the closure of some courts will result in increased use of technology and a speeding up of processes and that the lack of a physical courtroom could result in more cases being dealt with without the need for an attendance at court, although it remains to be seen how this will work out.