Justice echoes within these walls. Harrow Crown Court stands here a place where serious criminal cases are heard. What if these walls could talk?
Harrow Crown Court is more than just a building. It is located on Hailsham Drive in Harrow. This court addresses criminal civil and family matters. Established to meet North West London’s growing needs it ensures justice is served.
Let’s journey back to the late 1980s. The principal criminal court was once the Middlesex Guildhall. As criminal cases grew a dedicated courthouse became essential. The Lord Chancellor’s Department chose a site previously occupied by David Allan. This printing business made theatrical posters and ration books. HM Stationery Office acquired it in the 1920s but the factory closed in the 1980s.
Kyle Stewart designed Harrow Crown Court in a modern style. Completed in April 1991 the building cost £17.6 million. It features three sections facing Headstone Drive. The central section with the main entrance is glass. The left section projects forward slightly. The right section displays a Royal coat of arms. Inside are eight courtrooms.
Harrow Crown Court has seen some notable cases. In 1998 Nick Griffin was convicted of publishing racially inflammatory material. In 2016 Alex Gray was convicted of stalking Lily Allen for seven years.
In 2014 barristers protested Legal Aid cuts outside Harrow Crown Court disrupting cases. Then, in August 2023 disaster struck. Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete was found closing the building. The closure is expected to last until April 2025. Cases were moved to other London courts like the Old Bailey.
Harrow Crown Court offers several facilities. There is disabled access and free public parking. Hearing enhancement systems are available. Interview rooms and baby changing facilities are also provided. Video conference capabilities are available. Wireless internet is accessible throughout the building.
Harrow Crown Court handles various types of cases. These include serious criminal offenses civil disputes and family matters. Minor criminal cases are also handled under the Single Justice Procedure. The court ensures justice across different legal areas.
Harrow Crown Court stands as a crucial institution. It serves the legal needs of Harrow and surrounding areas. Despite recent setbacks it continues to deliver justice effectively. Remember this as you pass Harrow Crown Court. Its history is etched in every brick.