FLINT Magistrates’ Court could be axed as part of a shake-up of the justice system.

The Government has announced plans to shut 103 magistrates’ courts and 54 county courts across England and Wales that are considered under-used or inadequate and the court house in Chapel Street is one of those facing the chop.

Delyn MP David Hanson has condemned the proposal.

He said: “Flint has historically been associated with magistrates courts.

“It is one of the reasons the town was founded in the first place.”

It is expected that the closures could save about £15.3 million per year.

Courts Minister Jonathan Djanogly said: “When public finances are under pressure it is vital to eliminate waste and reduce costs.

“The Government is committed to supporting local justice, enabling justice to be done and seen to be done in our communities.

“Magistrates hear the majority of criminal cases and this voluntary contribution will continue to be strongly supported by the Government as the bedrock of our justice system.

“The arrangements we have are historical and now need to be re-assessed to ask whether they properly meet the needs of communities as they are today.”

A public consultation is now underway and people have until September 15 to express their views.

Mr Hanson added: “I urge people to respond to the consultation urgently.”

For further details go to www. justice.gov.uk/consultations/
consultations.htm.