ROTHERHAM’S MPs have hit out at the Government after they confirmed today that the town’s court will close.
It follows a consultation on the provision of court and tribunal facilities in England and Wales.
In September 2015 Rotherham’s three MPs, John Healey, Kevin Barron and Sarah Champion, wrote to the Justice Secretary objecting to plans to close the magistrates’, county and family court in Rotherham and transfer cases to Sheffield.
The MPs said closing the Rotherham court would undermine the principle of local justice, see the travel times of victims and witnesses rise to unacceptable levels and damage access to justice in the borough.
Commenting today, they said:
“We managed to fight off similar plans four years ago, so it was frustrating and disappointing to see the proposals come back last year.
“The government have been determined to press ahead with their plans, ignoring strong concerns raised by us and local magistrates.
“Closing the Rotherham court is deeply wrong and a huge blow to the delivery of justice locally.
“The court is one of the most visible symbols of justice in our town and removing it could further undermine confidence in the justice system, which has already been badly shaken in recent years.”
Rotherham’s court is expected to close between October and December this year.