28 August 2018

A new flagship court specifically designed to tackle cyber, fraud and economic crimes has been given the go-ahead in the heart of London.

To be built on the site of Fleetbank House in Salisbury Square, plans for the 18 courtroom legal centre have now been approved following a feasibility study launched last October. 

Developed in partnership with the City of London Corporation and the judiciary, the purpose-built court will also deal with business and property work as well as civil cases. It will replace the ageing civil court, Mayor’s and City of London County Court, and City of London Magistrates’ Court. A new City of London police station will also be included.

Funding will be provided by the City of London Corporation and HM Courts and Tribunals Service

The City of London is said to be the world’s financial centre and currently hosts more than 17,000 solicitors. English law is also reportedly used in 40 per cent of all global corporate arbitrations, and more than 200 foreign law firms currently have offices in the UK. 

Commenting on the plan approvals, Catherine McGuinness, policy chairman of the City of London Corporation, said: “This is a hugely significant step in this project that will give the Square Mile its second iconic courthouse after the Old Bailey.”