Public Prosecution Service to close Lisburn Chambers

The PPS plans will significantly re-organise operations across Northern Ireland over the next two years, with services that are currently provided in the Lisburn Chambers being transferred to an expanded site in Belfast.

The PPS’ Management Board has approved proposals to restructure key areas of its management and estate against the backdrop of significant budget reductions and after an extensive engagement exercise with staff.

The service will maintain a presence in a number of regional locations including Foyle, Newry and Omagh. It will seek to expand its Belfast Chambers to include those regional legal teams covering the courts in Lisburn, Ballymena, Larne, Down and Ards.

Announcing the changes, Director of Public Prosecutions Barra McGrory QC gave his assurance that the organisation will continue to provide a first-class prosecution service to all of Northern Ireland.

“These have been difficult decisions but necessary ones to ensure that we meet the £3m reduction in our budget,” said Mr McGrory. “My priority, together with the staff, is to make sure that our high standards are maintained.”