§ Dr. GodmanTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what was the total cost of the renovation of the Greenock sheriff court; and if he will make a statement; [30182]
(2) on how many occasions proceedings at the Greenock sheriff court have been postponed in the past two years; what were the reasons for such postponements; and if he will make a statement; [30183]
(3) what has been the total cost of remedial work carried out to the structure, heating system, water supply and other facilities and services at the Greenock sheriff court following its re-opening on the completion of the renovation programme; and if he will make a statement. [30184]
Lord James Douglas HamiltonThe total cost of the renovation of Greenock sheriff court, including the temporary outhousing of the court while work was proceeding, was £4,032,000, inclusive of professional fees and VAT. The work involved rot eradication, stonework repairs and extensive internal refurbishment. Subsequent to the renovation, parts of the external drainage system were replaced at an inclusive cost of £56,500.
The courthouse was reopened on 8 August 1994. On two occasions during the winter of 1995, business was adjourned at 10am following difficulties with the heating system. On 3 and 9 May 1996, business was adjourned at loam and on 13 May 1996 business was adjourned at noon; each of these adjournments was a result of problems with the incoming water main. On each occasion, the courthouse was open for business the next working day.
The causes of the problems experienced at the court and the allocation of costs for remedial action are still the subject of discussion between the Scottish Court Service and its contractors and consultants.