Skipton Magistrates’ Court could close, it was announced today.
The Government is asking for views on whether to close 103 magistrates’ courts – including Skipton – and 54 county courts “that are underused and inadequate in England and Wales”, according to the Ministry of Justice. The potential saving would total £27 million, says the Ministry.
Skipton Magistrates’ Court last faced potential closure in 2001 as part of a radical shake-up of the justice system in North Yorkshire.
That was fiercely opposed by Craven solicitors and North Yorkshire County Council. The court remained open following a merging of services with the county court. The closest alternative court to Skipton dealing with North Yorkshire cases is Harrogate, more than 20 miles away.
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