a day ago
Downing Centre to remain closed for four weeks due to flooding, some part-heard trials aborted
The busiest courthouse in New South Wales will be closed for at least one month, and some part-heard trials aborted, due to flood damage from earlier this week.
The Downing Centre on Tuesday was shut down due to a burst water main on Castlereagh Street in Sydney's CBD.
Electricity in the courthouse complex went out just before 10am, in the middle of court sittings, and the building was evacuated, with other neighbouring buildings also impacted.
The court's media team said "extensive damage" was caused to the infrastructure of the building, the electricity, IT systems and other equipment.
It is believed the building still has no power or water.
"As a result, the Downing Centre will be closed for at least four weeks … it is clear that extensive repairs will be required which will take a lengthy period of time," a spokesperson said.
Further updates from the Department of Communities and Justice are expected in the coming weeks as repairs commence to ensure the building is safe and fully operational prior to its reopening.
"Judicial officers and court staff are making every effort to ensure matters are able to proceed wherever possible," the spokesperson said.
The NSW Bar Association said it had received notice from the Chief Judge of the District Court, noting the likelihood of some trials being terminated due to the flooding situation.
"The District Court's present focus is to complete trials that are part-heard, particularly those where the proceedings are of some age and where the accused is in custody," a statement read.
The statement said arrangements were being made to source courtrooms elsewhere within the metropolitan area.
Those with matters scheduled in the Downing Centre Local Court or District Court were advised to check the online court, relevant websites or get in touch with Downing Centre advisors.
People with matters scheduled in the Drug Court were advised to contact the registry or their Community Corrections Officer.
Jurors currently empanelled in criminal trials in the Downing Centre were told they will be contacted by the NSW Sheriff's Office with further updates.
"I would ask that legal practitioners prepare parties and witnesses for the fact that over the next few weeks matters listed before the District Court in Sydney may not proceed as originally anticipated," a spokesperson for the Chief Judge of the District Court said.
"I assure you that we are doing all we can to ameliorate the significant disruption the Court is facing."
