The Courts have been set up rapidly to alleviate the pressure on the justice system resulting from the Coronavirus pandemic.

The new courts will cover civil, family and tribunals work as well as non-custodial crime cases, freeing up room in existing courts to hear other cases.

Amongst the venues chosen in England and Wales are the Ministry of Justice’s headquarters in London, Cloth Hall Court in Leeds and East Pallant House in Chichester. More locations will be announced in due course. Arrangements for use of the Knights' Chamber were confirmed only on Friday 17th July.

The Dean of Peterborough, the Very Revd Chris Dalliston, said:

“We are proud that the Knights’ Chamber is among the first venues to be selected by the Ministry of Justice as a Nightingale Court, and glad that we are able to help support this critically important work. The 13th century building has served many purposes in its time and this will add another layer to its long history. Attending court can be a very anxious time for people and we hope that some of those who come might also find a moment of peace and tranquillity in the Cathedral, whilst they are here.”

It is expected that the Court will operate in Peterborough from mid-August 2020 until February 2021. 

For more information please refer to the Ministry of Justice press release or contact their newsdesk on 0203 334 3536.