Epsom residents may have to double their journey time in the pursuit of legal matters if the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) decides to close its nearest courthouse.
The MoJ announced plans to shut the magistrates' court, county court and family court in Hatchlands Road, Redhill as part of an austerity drive in July.
From July: MP slams proposed Redhill courthouse closure as "bad news"
The consultation period for the proposed closures ends this Thursday, October 8, although an MoJ spokesman said a decision would not be "imminent".
Many defendants from Epsom pass through the Reigate law courts in Redhill because the town’s own county court closed about five years ago.
But the closure would mean that Epsom residents would have to travel farther afield to courts in Guildford (18 miles from Epsom town centre) or Staines (15 miles).
The jobs of the court's 24 staff would also be uncertain.
A local charity condemned the Ministry of Justice’s proposals, arguing that the transfer of court work to Guildford and Staines will disproportionately affect litigants on low incomes.
Chris Blockey, Court Desk and Debt Supervisor at Citizens Advice Reigate and Banstead, said: “This plan will reduce access to justice for more of our clients and their families who will find it impossible to attend hearings miles away from their homes.
“For example, people on low incomes, or in poor health, facing action for rent arrears will be badly affected. Now their cases are heard locally and there are support networks to help them and the court find the best way forward.
“If the courts close, they will be at more risk of eviction with all the disruption and extra cost that means for them, their families and housing providers.”
Paul Harris, delivery director for HM Courts and Tribunals Service South East said the building has been targeted because of its ability to deliver an efficient service has been "compromised".
In an official MoJ document outlining the reasons behind the proposal, he wrote: "I have identified buildings where I believe our ability to deliver an efficient service has been compromised by poor facilities, where usage is low and where the building does not provide appropriate value for the public money spent on it.
"I have carefully considered the impact of the proposed changes - both locally and across the South East.
"Of course, staff would be affected by these proposed changes. Although the impact will be limited, I will make sure this is managed properly.
"I understand that these proposals could result in some people having longer journeys to the courts and tribunals. I am committed to working with rural communities to provide alternative ways for the public to access the justice system."
To see the proposals, download the official document.
What do you think? Email letters@epsomguardian.co.uk
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