Debate contribution: Limavady Courthouse
Debate contribution by Mrs Naomi Long on .
- MLA
- Mrs Naomi Long
- Party at the time
- Alliance Party
- Date
- 28 September 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- Limavady Courthouse
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5762116
Read the official Assembly record
Text
The intention, as part of the overall review, was to significantly refurbish and extend Bishop Street courthouse, which would allow us to provide modern facilities, such as the space to separate witnesses and defendants, on-site without losing the asset. That is still possible, but my challenge is that there is no capital funding available for that project at this time. In the interim, we continue to do essential maintenance to ensure that the building is kept in good repair for the sake of those who work in it and because it is a pristine piece of architecture. It is an impressive building in a historic location. It is important that our heritage is protected and cared for. The plans that we have and are developing are not about anything other than ensuring access to justice. There will be many scenarios that we will have to work through for each of the courthouses. I do not want to prejudge any of them — I have not taken a firm decision on any of them at this point — but, on the basis of the plans that I have seen, there is a real opportunity to reinvigorate and bring life back to Bishop Street courthouse in a way that allows it to conduct the modern business of the court service.
218 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Assessment
Awaiting analysis
This record has not been analysed yet. It is not counted in any total until it has been assessed.
Disagree with this assessment?
Classifications can be challenged. A person reviews every challenge, and any change is recorded publicly above with its reason.