PROTESTS over the planned closure of Laun­ceston Mag­ist­rates' Court have fallen on deaf ears.

Following a full public consultation, plans to close "underused and inadequate magistrates' courts" including Laun­ceston were confirmed by the Ministry of Justice last week.

Justice Secretary Jack Straw claimed the changes would help to deliver a more modern justice service that puts the needs of victims and witnesses first while providing best value for taxpayers. In order to improve services "20 deficient courts" are being closed around the country.

Mr Straw added: "Going to court should not place undue stress on victims and witnesses of crime. We have made significant imp­rovements to the

fac­­­­­ilities for these court users.

"Many of the courts that are closing do not have suitable facilities for victims and witnesses. In addition a number of the buildings do not allow adequate access for disabled court users. I do not believe it would provide good value for money to bring these buildings up to the required standard at the taxpayers' expense.

"The consultation papers asked respondents to comment on any impacts that closure may have. In light of the responses received, I am confident that the closures will not have a significant adverse

imp­act on the provision of local justice."

Following the com­p­­letion of the Bodmin Law Courts

Integration Project, cases stopped being listed at the Launceston Court in May, 2009. Prior to this only 13 per cent of the court's capacity was being used, claim court officials.

"It is the smallest courthouse in the East Cornwall Local Justice Area and is in need of major refurbishment. The building is no longer suitable for the provision of court services.

"Launceston cases are currently being heard at Bodmin and Liskeard Mag­istrates' Courts which have improved fac­­ilities for court users."

The Mayor, Cllr Paul O'Brien has described the proposal as "just another kick in the teeth for the town."

Launceston, once the capital of Cornwall, until 1835, used to hold an assize court (the equivalent of today's Crown Court).