PM to open Law Courts today

Finishing touches are put to the outside of the Law Courts building, which reopens today after...
Finishing touches are put to the outside of the Law Courts building, which reopens today after strengthening and refurbishment. Photo: Christine O'Connor
Dunedin's newly earthquake-strengthened and refurbished Law Courts buildings have been judged fit to stand trial.

The 1902 building, which has undergone a $20million restoration project, will be officially opened by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern today.

The building was closed seven years ago and  court services relocated to High St.

"We are really looking forward to coming back in to this building," court manager David Tapp said yesterday.

"It’s a beautiful building and we have been out of it for a wee while now."

The temporary perimeter fencing around the courts will remain in place until final work on the building is completed.

The Law Courts officially reopen for counter services on February 5, and  the first official court sittings are scheduled for two days later.

The temporary facilities in High St have been closed and no services will continue there, Mr Tapp said.

At 1pm today a procession comprising the judiciary, Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull and members of the legal profession will march from the Town Hall to the Law Courts.

A special sitting of the High Court to mark the reopening will be presided over by Chief Justice Dame Sian Elias at 2.15pm.

mike.houlahan@odt.co.nz

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