Courts to close during Olympics

Government plans will see around 50% of criminal courtrooms in the capital out of operation during the London Olympic Games.

Official documents seen by the Press Association have revealed that ministers plan to temporarily close Crown Courts close to major Olympic venues over fears of how the sporting events will affect roads and other transport.

The plans, which will begin to take effect from July 23, reveal that no more than 54% of courtrooms across the capital will sit during the 17-day Olympics. It is thought fears over how travel issues could affect victims and jurors’ journeys to court were behind the move.

Among those courts remaining open, some will only offer partial services during the duration of the Games.

Overall London has 11 crown courts with 138 courtrooms, but as few as 72 of them will sit during the Games. Papers have revealed that courts will try to conclude cases before the Games get under way in late July.

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