Doncaster's magistrates' court shuts after unsafe concrete found

Hearings are currently suspended at Doncaster Magistrates' Court

A South Yorkshire courthouse has had to close after the discovery of unsafe concrete in the building.

Doncaster Justice Centre North, which houses the city's magistrates' court, is one of nine courts across England found to contain reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac).

Raac is a lightweight material which is much weaker than traditional concrete and has a lifespan of just 30 years.

Raac was also found at Bradford and Keighley Magistrates' Court.

That discovery resulted in the closure of one of the rooms.

His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) said Doncaster Justice Centre North was closed alongside Harrow Crown Court and Preston Magistrates' Court.

Raac was also detected at Blackpool County Court, Blackpool Magistrates' Court, Crewe Magistrates' and County Court, Queen Elizabeth II Law Courts in Liverpool and Inner London Crown Court.

A HMCTS spokesperson said those buildings had been deemed safe and continued to operate as usual.

Regular assessments would be carried out in coming weeks and months, the spokesperson added.

According to Doncaster Magistrates' Court, hearings will now be heard at alternative sites to "minimise disruption".