The Ministry of Justice has invested £111m in a new tribunal centre in the City (Kirsty O’Connor/PA)
(Picture: PA Wire)An office block next to the famous Old Bailey courthouse has been bought by the government to house a new tribunal centre in the heart of London’s legal district.
The seven-storey building at 7 Newgate Street has been purchased by the Ministry of Justice for £111 million, with plans for employment tribunals, social security disputes, and child support cases to start being dealt with there at the end of 2023.
The new site – designated as the Central London Tribunal Centre – is set to replace existing sites within the HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) portfolio in the capital.
However the MoJ has not yet revealed which of its buildings are set for closure when the new centre opens next year.
The new site is adjacent to the famous Central Criminal Court - known as the Old Bailey, it is within walking distance of the Royal Courts of Justice, and also close to the new financial crime courts complex which is being built in Salisbury Square, off Fleet Street, and is set to open in 2025.
Announcing today’s news, Justice Minister James Cartlidge said: “The new Tribunal Centre will be developed into a modern space in the heart of London, with tribunal users at the forefront of its design.
“We are investing significantly in court rooms and tribunal buildings across the country to meet the demands of our justice system.”
Rupert Morgan, HMCTS property director said: “I am delighted to confirm the purchase of 7 Newgate Street, securing tribunal hearing capability within the heart of London for years to come.
“Optimising energy use and carbon emissions, the building will deliver the modern and efficient facilities which our users expect.”
The building at 7 Newgate Street is already undergoing refurbishment, and the MoJ will need to secure “change of use” approval from the City of London Corporation to convert it from offices to tribunal hearing rooms.
Last night, the MoJ confirmed the new centre “will provide replacement tribunal capacity for existing locations in London that we expect to exit over time. Further details will be announced in due course.”
