This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Aberdeen Sheriff Court refurbishment
19/01/2004
Aberdeen's court facilities are to get a £6.7 million facelift, it was announced today.
Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson said the money is to be invested by theScottish CourtService in the refurbishment ofAberdeen Sheriff Court.
Ms Jamieson said the transformation of the court would provide victims, witnesses and their families with modern, decent facilities that will support the delivery of justice.
Minister for Justice Cathy Jamieson said:
"The Scottish Executive is committed to tackling serious crime wherever it arises. As well as providing substantial resources to the police and prosecution services we are also prepared to invest in the court infrastructure where this is needed. This is a significant investment to improve court facilities in Aberdeenwhich will also be of benefit to the wider Grampian area.
"I welcome this refurbishment which will go a long way to enhancing the facilities for victims, witnesses as well as those for members of the public who require to attendAberdeen Sheriff Court. It should also speed up results for victims and families and reduce unnecessary stress for witnesses. The improved facilities will help in delivering a justice system that is fair for victims, fair for witnesses, fair for jurors - while upholding the right to a fair trial for the accused."
Increasing levels of criminal business mean that there is a need to enhance Aberdeen Sheriff Courts current jury court facilities. The opportunity is also being taken to provide better facilities for witnesses and victims, in line with the Scottish Executives modernisation of Scotlands High Courts.
To meet the needs of vulnerable witnesses and victims, a self-contained suite will provide privacy and enable evidence to be given remotely from the courtroom. The refurbishment will also provide two new jury courtrooms, along with ancillary accommodation, allowing the Sheriff Court and High Court to sit simultaneously.
Work will commence on19 January 2004on the refurbishment of the former bank building inCastle Street,Aberdeen, opposite theSheriff Court. The project has been awarded to Mansell Ltd and is expected to take 67 weeks with completion due in summer 2005.