Court Closures Draws Criticism From PCC

Tuesday, 16 February 2016 11:24

Plans to scrap two leading West Yorkshire courts have again been criticised as an attack on local justice by the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner. (PCC)

PCC Mark Burns-Williamson had previously written to the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) to oppose plans to close courts in Calderdale and Wakefield as part of the MOJ's consultation. The announcement to close them has now again been questioned by Mr Burns-Williamson, who said it would leave some policing districts without a court.

It would see local court services concentrated in Bradford, Leeds and Huddersfield, restricting access to many West Yorkshire residents.

Mark Burns-Williamson, said:

"Going to court can be a difficult experience for victims and witnesses - by denying local access in this way the Government is making it even more difficult for many people.

"Now these courts in Calderdale and Wakefield are to close then where will a victim or witness local to these courts expect? A trip to Bradford, Leeds or Huddersfield could be expensive and time consuming for many and put people off going through the criminal justice system.

"By removing the Calderdale and Wakefield courts there will be a situation where, for the first time in my memory, there will be some policing districts without a court."

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