Fears over future of Downpatrick courthouse

THE long-term future of Downpatrick Courthouse has been questioned in a major review of court facilities across Northern Ireland.
The Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland report recommends the creation of three 'super courts' and six 'satellite' venues. Downpatrick is not one of the suggested venues and doesn't feature in alternative options considered by consultants.
Should it close, it is most likely that the workload of the court would be transferred to Newtownards or Newry.
The courthouse has been a feature of English Street since 1735, with the Grade B listed building substantially rebuilt in 1855. Should it close, it would be another blow to Downpatrick's position as a centre of public service excellence.
Yesterday's report states its three 'super courts' would be in Laganside, Londonderry and Dungannon, with the six satellite court venues in Antrim, Coleraine, Enniskillen, Newry, Omagh and Newtownards. This would see Downpatrick, Armagh, Craigavon, Larne and Lisburn close.
In the case of the Newtownards site, the report states it would either have to be redeveloped or a new site in North Down acquired. The potential impact on staff is not discussed.
Assessing usage rates and costs across the 21 courthouses in Northern Ireland, the average utilisation rate emerged at 65.7 per cent, with Downpatrick at around 55 per cent. The utilisation rate of Laganside was 91 per cent and at the bottom of the scale was Armagh at 27 per cent. When it came to actual sitting times Downpatrick had the seventh highest average adult criminal day, but the cost per hour of sitting was £614 —<\!p>the fourth highest. In an assessment of facilities, Downpatrick achieved a 'medium' quality standard.
However, the report concludes by focusing on the "very real funding difficulties" that would be involved in raising the £75m required for the recommended option.
"On their own the estimated annual savings do not present a compelling investment argument with a return on capital extending to almost 30 years," the report reads.
Downpatrick solicitor Ronnie Lowry, of Murlands Solicitors, said Down District would be "severely disadvantaged" if the proposals went ahead.
"I am very disappointed at the thought we could lose Downpatrick," he said, questioning the assessment of Downpatrick Courthouse's usage.
"It seems to be extremely busy. As a resident all you need to see are the amount of cars parked around the streets nearby.
"It is also a beautiful old building with a lot of history attached to it."<\n>Mr, Lowry said there also would be very significant practical problems involved with any move to Newtownards or Newry.
"There will be difficulty getting people to court," he said. "If you are unemployed or on benefits and you cannot afford to drive, the bus service is quite poor. To get to Newtownards you need to get an Ulsterbus to Ards via Belfast.
"Some solicitors give lifts but it is not always possible and there are health and safety issues and insurance issues to be considered. In all, Downpatrick would be severely disadvantaged."
Justice Minister, David Ford, said he accepted the assessment by independent inspectors on the condition of court venues across Northern Ireland.
"An efficient court estate plays a vital role in the administration of justice and today's report makes clear that the facilities for court users vary considerably from place to place," he said.
"That is not a situation that I can allow to continue indefinitely."
Mr. Ford said the inspection report set out 10 recommendations for improvement and an action plan was being developed against these recommendations.

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