Peterborough’s ‘Nightingale Court’ opens for the first time

The court, which has opened in the Knight’s Chamber, Peterborough Cathedral today, is one of several Nightingale Courts that have opened across the country since the COVID pandemic started.

The court is not dealing with criminal cases, but instead dealing with Employment Tribunal and Corporate Crime.

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.”

There have been no major changes made to the historical building to allow the court to open.

Justice Minister, Lucy Frazer said:

“The opening of this Nightingale Court is an important step in delivering speedier justice for the people of Peterborough.

“Court staff have worked tirelessly to deliver these sites across the country - helping to reduce delays and ensuring justice continues to be served despite this unprecedented pandemic.

“This is the latest step in our plan to work with the judiciary and legal sector in pursuing every available option to ensure our courts recover as quickly as possible.”

The move will help free up room in existing courts to hear other cases, including custodial jury trials, which require cells and secure dock facilities to keep the public, victims and witnesses safe. It is one of two Nightingale courts opening today with the other at Cloth Hall Court, Leeds. This follows the opening of another two nightingales earlier this week – one located at the Ministry of Justice’s headquarters in Westminster and the other in Fleetwood.

When the new courts were announced, The Lord Chancellor, Robert Buckland QC MP said: “Our action to keep the justice system running throughout the pandemic has been globally recognised, with these Nightingale Courts being the latest step in this effort.

“They will help boost capacity across our courts and tribunals - reducing delays and delivering speedier justice for victims.

“But we won’t stop there. Together with the judiciary, courts staff and legal sector, I am determined that we must pursue every available option to ensure our courts recover as quickly as possible.”

Courts in Peterborough continued to sit throughout lockdown, with many hearings taking place via video links.

It is expected the Nightingale Court will remain open until February.