WIREDGOV

On the eve of the new legal year, Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Jack Straw announced the successful delivery of the new UK Supreme Court.

The court will officially open tomorrow, Thursday 1 October 2009.

Jack Straw said:

'The delivery of the new UK Supreme Court to the people of Britain is a major milestone and one that will ensure greater access to and transparency of the highest court of appeal in the UK.

'I'm pleased to announce that the renovation of this magnificent building has been completed on time and within budget. The former Middlesex Guildhall has been modernised and renovated to the highest standard as appropriate for its setting and new purpose.

'Its location on Parliament Square also offers a great symbolic significance, bringing together the legislature, the executive, the judiciary and the Church.'

'Members of the public will soon be able to visit the court and view the outstanding refurbishment that has delivered the most modern of facilities while respecting the fabric of this historic building.'

The renovation of the Middlesex Guildhall has restored and revived many of the original features that were concealed by adaptations over the years, including stonework carvings, original lightwells, and stained glass windows.

Set up under the Constitutional Reform Act 2005, the Supreme Court will provide greater clarity in the UK constitution by further separating the judiciary from the legislature underlining the independence of our judicial system. The existing Law Lords will become the first Justices of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, and the Senior Law Lord will become the President.

It will be the final court of appeal for all civil cases in the United Kingdom, all criminal cases in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and will also assume the devolution jurisdiction of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.

Notes to editors

1. For media enquiries contact Ministry of Justice press office on 020 3334 3536