ACCRINGTON’S two courts could be closed as part of a cost saving measure, it has been announced.

Both criminal and county court cases would instead be sent to Burnley and Blackburn, the government outlined yesterday.

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A consultation has now been launched on proposals to shut 91 courts and tribunals in England and Wales, while a further 31 are to be ‘integrated’.

Accrington County Court, in Oak Street, is in a ‘poor state of repair’, only sits an average of two days per month, and costs £123,000 a year to run government documents reveal.

While Accrington Magistrates’ Court, in Manchester Road, was also described as being in a ‘poor condition’ with a leaky roof, only sits one day a week, and costs £80,000 a year to run.

The decision has been welcomed by council leader Miles Parkinson, who said the court buildings could now be developed.

He said: “We are aware in Hyndburn the buildings are being used less and most services have been moved out of the borough and are being offered elsewhere.

“I don’t view it as negative. It’s something which may enable the development of the Grade II-listed magistrates’ court building, with the police also moving.”

The police are set to move into Accrington town centre from the building, which it currently shares with the court, later this year.

Courts Minister Shailesh Vara said: “We are reforming the courts and tribunal service so that it meets the needs of modern day users.

“As we bring in digital technology for better and more efficient access to justice, fewer people will need to physically be in a court.

“This means that we will need fewer buildings.”

Gill Hague, delivery director at HM Courts and Tribunals Service North West, said: “This consultation is an opportunity for the public to use their knowledge of their local areas to review and help us with our proposals.

“Of course, staff would be affected by these proposed changes. Although the impact will be limited, I will make sure this is managed properly.

Two members of staff could be affected.

The proposals aim to streamline Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) as Justice Secretary Michael Gove embarks on a drive to modernise the system.

The consultation will run until October 8.