The dissipated nature of court provision in Belfast has been improved

1.2  The new 16 courts complex was the first major PFI scheme to be completed in Northern Ireland and the first courts project to reach financial close in the United Kingdom. For the first time Crown, County and Magistrates' courts business in Belfast is combined in one location, supported by a common administrative support team. The scheme resolved the intractable problem of the Crumlin Road Courthouse when it and two other sites were sold as part of the overall agreement. The project also enabled the closure of Newtownabbey Magistrates' Court and the transfer of business to Belfast, resulting in a more efficient and effective service throughout the petty sessions districts. The Old Townhall Courthouse adjacent to Laganside Courts was also converted to a much-needed family court centre, a Coroner's Court and a Youth Court, which was needed to keep youths separate from adult criminals.