With 18 state-of-the-art courtrooms, the large, new legal complex will be situated in the centre of London on the site of Fleetbank House and will include a new City of London police station. It will replace the ageing civil court, Mayor’s and City of London County Court, and the City of London Magistrates’ Court.

The Employment Appeal Tribunal, which currently occupies Fleetbank House, will move to the Rolls Building. The building of the court is expected to be completed by 2025, however, this timeline is subject to the finalisation of funding arrangements and the securing of planning permission.

The ‘cutting-edge’ bespoke legal centre has been developed in partnership with the City of London Corporation and the judiciary, which is expected to contribute the majority of the project’s estimated £300 million cost. Funding will also be provided by the City of London Corporation and HM Courts & Tribunals Service.

Court to Tackle Rising Cybercrime

Lord Chancellor David Gauke said: “The flag of English law is flown in countries across the globe, and London already leads the way as the best place to do business and resolve disputes. This state-of-the-art court is a further message to the world that Britain both prizes business and stands ready to deal with the changing nature of 21st-century crime.”

Commenting on the announcement Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation Catherine McGuinness said: “This is a hugely significant step in this project that will give the Square Mile its second iconic courthouse after the Old Bailey.”

“Our rule of law is one of the many reasons why London is the world’s most innovative, dynamic, and international financial centre, and this new court will add to our many existing strengths. I’m particularly pleased that this court will have a focus on the legal issues of the future, such as fraud, economic crime, and cyber-crime.”

“Fleet Street may historically be known for hosting newspapers, but I believe with this iconic project it will be seen as a world-leading centre for legal services and justice for decades to come.”