A CAMPAIGN is being launched to save Waltham Forest Magistrates Court following a proposal to close it as part of an overhaul of London courts.

The plan to shut the Farnan Avenue courthouse in Walthamstow, and move its casework to Stratford, was revealed by the Greater London Magistrates Court Authority (GLMCA) last Thursday.

The courthouse opened in 1973. It has 49 members of staff including clerks, ushers, administrative and managerial workers.

Peter Cozens, Justices' Clerk, said: "The news from the GLMCA came as a complete shock to everyone.

"This will clearly have an effect on all staff, justices, probation workers and youth offending officers, licensees, court users and members of the public in Waltham Forest.

"Travelling time from some parts of the borough to Stratford is up to 80 minutes each way."

Keith Gordon, chairman of the bench, is spearheading a campaign to keep the court open.

He said: "We were all shocked but we haven't given up yet, we will do everything in our power to show them the error of their ways.

"A draft plan was set out three months ago and we thought that Waltham Forest was safe, but they have moved the goalposts.

"We have set up a working party to respond to the decision."

A Probation Service spokesperson said: "There has to be a balance between the efficiency and improved services at larger courts and the need for strong local links."

The GLMCA took over the running of magistrates courts in April. A statutory consultation into the proposed closures will take place in the new year.