Cracked wall forces closure of city's crown court

A cracked wall has forced the closure of Nottingham Crown Court.

The building on Canal Street was evacuated as a result on Wednesday, the BBC understands.

A spokesperson for HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) said the cracking was located at the entrance of the building and some cases had been moved to the Nottingham Magistrates' Court.

They said the crown court was expected to fully reopen on Monday.

The spokesperson added: "The safety of all court users, staff and members of the public is of paramount importance to us.

"Due to cracking in the wall at Nottingham Crown Court, the entrance has been closed as a precautionary measure.

"Where feasible, cases have been moved to the magistrates' court and we will reopen Nottingham Crown Court as soon as possible."

It is not the first time court proceedings were interrupted due to damage to the building.

Last year, a water leak led to a courtroom being taken out of use.

A leading barrister previously told the BBC the justice system was on the "brink of collapse" after it emerged several courtrooms were closed because of leaks and broken heating.

It was announced last year that Nottingham Crown Court would get a £14m upgrade to help fix "long-standing maintenance issues" and reduce delays.

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