Justice for All
C
ourts are the final arbiter between the citizen and state and are therefore a fundamental pillar of the constitution. They must be trusted to be
independent and impartial. On 12 June 2003 the Prime Minister announced the Government’s intention to remove the jurisdiction of the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords and transfer it to a new Supreme Court for the United Kingdom. This move would enhance the independence of the Law Lords and increase the transparency between the apex of the UK Justice System and Parliament.
Location
Positioning the Supreme Court on
Parliament Square places it at the heart of the capital and confirms its significance. Locating it at the Middlesex Guildhall place secures the long term future of this Grade II listed building. Middlesex Guildhall was chosen for three
key reasons: • Locating the apex of the judicial system away from the Houses of Parliament, but right in the heart of the Capital, symbolises its separation from the
UK Supreme Court Feilden + Mawson Foster & Partners
legislature yet reiterates its national and international importance. The judiciary, the legislature the executive and the Church will each be represented on the four sides of Parliament Square. • The building is able to provide all the key design requirements of a modern Supreme Court delivering much improved accommodation at a reasonable cost, demonstrating good value for money.
• It was an opportunity to refresh a significant, yet tired, building.
As Middlesex Guildhall is a Grade II*listed building a practice of leading conservation architects Feilden +Mawson were engaged to develop the renovation plans. The overall aim was to create a suitable, yet imaginative, accommodation for the Supreme Court, whilst respecting the fabric of this historic building. The renovation designs were developed in close consultation with the Law Lords, in accordance with s148 of the Constitutional Reform Act. The Westminister City Council City and Planning Committee unanimously approved the plans, with the full support of English Heritage. The opening up of the north and south
lightwells that have been filled in over the years has brought back light into the building. This has enhanced the appearance of the original features such as the stained glass windows, wood panelling and ornate ceilings. The renovated Guildhall is more welcoming to visitors, providing public areas such as a cafeteria and exhibition space. • Equal access to the building has also been improved with: • Entrance ways more accessible. • Spaces will contain less clutter. • The restoration of original architectural features, such as the two light wells, will restore coherence to navigation around the building.
• An additional lift shaft in the south-west corner of the corridor system gives those who cannot or choose not to use the stairs greater access to the court rooms.
The renovation has breathed new life into a
previously tired building, which sits in one of the most historic and recognisable public spaces in the world. The renovation works have been completed to the highest standard, as appropriate for its setting and required for a Grade II* listed building.
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