Decision details

Resolved

(1)          That the following motion be adopted:

“This council deplores the Ministry of Justice decision to close the Banbury Magistrate’s and County Court.

This council notes that “The Banbury Court” is an integral part of the fabric of the Town, and is already a combined justice centre for hearing both civil and criminal cases. The Council therefore rejects any suggestion that it is underused and further observes that the Banbury Magistrates’ and County Court provides an important alternative venue for criminal and civil justice, both in Oxfordshire and the surrounding counties, given the high volume of cases now heard out of Oxford.

This council places the highest importance upon access to justice for all defendants, plaintiffs and for the families of those accused. The present proposals will hit the poorest especially hard, as the current rules will prevent local Solicitors in Banbury from representing legally aided clients, due to the archaic rules which require such firms to be located in close proximity to the court where the hearing is to take place.

This council further notes the additional pressure that the closure would place on the Oxford Combined Court Centre and considers that further centralisation of services to Oxford will put additional strain on Oxford City congestion. This proposed closure would also adversely impact on those people within the Banbury catchment area without independent means of transport or access to public transport.

Accordingly, this Council instructs the Leader to write to the Ministry of Justice to engage with local councils, particularly in light of the emerging partnership arrangements between Oxfordshire County Council and Cherwell District Council, with a view to exploring the options of utilizing public buildings to continue supporting locally administered justice and the needs of the people of North Oxfordshire, and the Neighbouring counties.”