CONOR McGinn MP has blasted the decision to close St Helens Magistrates' Court, branding it a government attempt to "denigrate the status of St Helens as a major town in the North West".

Following months of uncertainty, it was confirmed by the Ministry of Justice that the magistrates' court will close but the County Court will remain open.

It was announced last July that the building on Corporation Street was among 91 courts and tribunals across England and Wales earmarked for closure in a bid to reduce "surplus capacity" according to Justice Secretary Michael Gove.

St Helens County Court, which is part of the existing building, will now also take the workload of Warrington County Court. Tribunals from Warrington and Runcorn will also be held in St Helens.

In response to the announcement, the St Helens North MP, who has been vocally opposed to the closure, said: "This is bad news for the town and for residents of St Helens North.

"We await further and final details from the Ministry of Justice, but it would appear that the functions of the court will move to Liverpool.

"Many appointments at court are often first thing in the morning, and without access to adequate transport attendance will simply be unfeasible for many of my constituents. This is particularly the case for the people who live in places like Rainford, Billinge, Moss Bank and Haydock and rural areas, who have to travel just to reach direct bus and rail services to Liverpool."

Mr McGinn added: "The cost of the train or bus to Liverpool will also have an impact on vulnerable people in my constituency whether they are victims, witnesses or defendants. Someone’s financial means should not affect their ability to access the justice system.

"Today's announcement is another attempt by the Tory Government to denigrate the status of St Helens as a major town in the North West. We must not let them succeed."