Kingston Magistrates' Court under threat once again (From Surrey Comet)

Kingston Magistrates' Court under threat once again

5:05pm Wednesday 23rd June 2010 in

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Kingston Magistrates' Court has been included in a list of 157 "underused and inadequate" courts that may be closed by the Ministry of Justice in an effort to save £15.3m in yearly running costs.

Courts Minister Jonathan Djanogly said population changes meant some courts did not reflect the needs of local communities, and modern technology meant fewer people would need to physically attend court in the future.

The court was previously slated for closure in 2002, but was saved after a campaign spearheaded by the Surrey Comet forced the Greater London Magistrates' Court Authority, which has since been abolished, to abandon the plans.

Kingston and Surbiton MP Edward Davey said he would use his influence as a member of the Government to argue against the closure plan.

He said: “This is disappointing news, if not surprising. I will work with the local bench and the council to argue Kingston's case once again.

“While the public spending pressure is greater than in the past, Kingston's case as a centre of excellence for the law must be made."

Council leader Councillor Derek Osbourne also said the local authority would also fight the proposals.

The consultation on the proposed closure closes on September 15.