Concerned response of police
THERE was also concern raised among police officers in the wake of news North Devon Magistrates' Court could face the prospect of hosting a reduced number of court hearings.
Chief Inspector Toby Davies, whose office at Barnstaple police station is just yards from the magistrates' court, said the situation was a difficult one for him to comment on.
He said: "Not unlike ourselves the Court Services are under considerable pressure to make savings and are being forced into making some tough decisions.
"But with that said I am concerned, and the proposed reduction in service will clearly have an impact on us in relation to access, transport and more.
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"We are particularly keen that we minimise any adverse impact on witnesses and victims, particularly the more vulnerable."
And Chief Inspector Davies said whatever the outcome was, police would continue to work with HMCTS.
He said: "If there were a choice, of course, I would prefer that it didn't happen.
"However, if it does then be assured that we will do all we can to work with Court Services and our partners to minimise the impact on North Devon."
Related:
Click here to sign the e-petition to save North Devon Magistrates' Court.
POLL: Do you support plans to reduce the number of courts in Barnstaple? Vote in our poll which can be found on the right-hand side of this page, or by clicking here.
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