Her Majesty’s Court and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) has now confirmed that alternative provision will be established at Chichester District Council’s building at East Pallant House. HMCTS has confirmed court provision will be retained in Chichester in civil and family law cases. In civil cases this will include possession hearings, some personal injury and small claims cases. In family law, cases to be heard will include cases involving child arrangements on separation and divorce, financial issues and some injunction cases.
After a three year battle, the East Pallant House option provides an outcome which preserves significant capacity for court cases to continue to be dealt with in Chichester. The provision to be made available at East Pallant House will offer a maximum capacity of up to 100 judicial sitting days.
Critically, the new arrangements will safeguard court facilities where significant access to justice issues arise, including people facing significant hardships or with disabilities.
Welcoming the news Chichester MP Gillian Keegan said: “I am delighted that after years of discussion and hard work by local solicitors, campaigners and officials, Chichester will keep some court provision once the old court buildings are closed. This is so important for residents as it will mean people won’t have to travel long distances to Brighton or Winchester for what are often very short hearings. I am grateful to both the Government and Chichester District Council for listening and working with the community to achieve this positive result for the people of Chichester.”
A HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesman said: “We have worked closely with local leaders, listened to their concerns and are pleased that we have been able to find an alternative venue for court hearings in Chichester as a result. The changes in Chichester are a part of our wider court reforms which will make services easier to use and better value for taxpayers.”
A spokesman for Chichester District Council added: “We have been working closely with HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) for several months to facilitate a local continuation of the court service in our city. Although the finer details of the arrangements have not yet been finalised, we are hopeful that a solution will be deliverable that will satisfy all concerned.”
Charles Brasted, partner at Hogan Lovells who led on the case, said: “Ensuring continued access to justice for the most vulnerable members of society is vital. We are proud to have supported West Sussex Resolution and are thrilled with the outcome of the case, and the important precedent that it sets. Court closures must not be allowed to go through without rigorous scrutiny and adequate alternative provision in place.”
