The Ilford Recorder has helped to save a magistrates court from closure.

Redbridge courthouse in Barkingside faced the axe under proposals by the Greater London Magistrates’ Court Authority to cut costs and centralise services in London.

But following the Justice for Redbridge campaign, led by the Recorder, the Authority has backed down and said the facility will remain open.

As part of its campaign, the Recorder sent an open letter to the Lord Chancellor stating its objections to the closure and collected 880 signatures from readers concerned about the proposed closure.

Chairman of the bench Richard Hoskins said: “So many people were involved in saving the court and we really would like to thank everyone for their support, in particular the Recorder, for its campaign.”

The authority’s proposals, which include the closure of 14 other courts, will now go out to consultation with the courts earmarked for closure.

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