A much-anticipated report published on Thursday will signal the closure of Barnet's two ageing magistrates' courts.

But the creation of a new 'supercourt' for north London, possibly in Whetstone, will see the borough escape the worst ravages of the radical shake-up.

It will replace Barnet and Hendon magistrates' courts likely to be sold off for redevelopment as well as courthouses in Haringey and Enfield.

Barnet Council has been charged with finding a site for the supercourt, and Barnet College's Russell Lane campus, which it is believed to be looking to offload, has been mooted. On the borders of all three boroughs, it would be ideally situated.

Magistrates, police and politicians have all criticised closure proposals. They are expected to welcome today's plans as the ideal outcome of the controversial review by the Greater London Magistrates' Court Authority (GLMCA).

Their worst fears that cases from Barnet would be transferred wholesale to Brent have not been realised, perhaps thanks in some part to a vociferous campaign to revive plans for a Mill Hill 'supercourt', shelved six years ago by the last Conservative government.

Penny Gluckstein, chairman of the Barnet bench, said yesterday: "I can't comment on the report because I haven't seen it yet but if this was the outcome we would obviously be thrilled to bits."

She added: "It would be a great result for local justice."

While the report was not due to be released until later today, the Times Group understands Barnet has escaped serious damage.

Four out of six cost-cutting proposals tabled by the GLMCA would see the closure of Barnet's two historic courts so it was always the most likely outcome.

The GLMCA believes restructuring will speed up services, modernise courts and cut over-capacity.

Magistrates admitted Barnet and Hendon magistrates' courts suffered serious shortcomings. Both buildings are nearly 90 years old and ill-equipped for the demands of the modern criminal justice system.

A Barnet College spokesman said the future of its Whetstone campus, where the new supercourt could be built, was under review but no final decision had been made.

December 12, 2001 18:13

MATTHEW NIXSON