Cases moved after burst pipe in crown court cells

A number of criminal cases had to be postponed after a burst water pipe in the holding cells of Leicester Crown Court led to part of its basement flooding.

HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) said the burst pipe resulted in some cases being unable to go ahead on Tuesday.

"The issue has now been fixed and the cells are fully operational," a spokesperson added.

Further maintenance work is due to take place outside of working hours to minimise disruption, but will "not affect the safe operation of the court". HMCTS added the court was in contact with affected parties to reschedule hearings.

GeoAmey - which hold the prisoner escort and custody services contract in the region - and estates contractors said they were "satisfied the cells are safe to use" and that a deep clean had been carried out, according to HMCTS.

The spokesperson added: "We will reschedule any adjourned hearings as soon as possible."

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