THE first phase of work to renovate the Shire Hall building in Taunton has been completed.

The combined court (crown and county court) building was closed last year to allow “repairs and planned renovations”.

A HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesperson said: “Taunton Shire Hall is undergoing extensive renovations which include improving brickwork, carrying out roof and floor repair work and refurbishing the windows.

“The first phase of work has been completed and the external scaffolding removed.

“While Shire Hall is closed, Crown Court cases will be sitting at North Somerset Courthouse in Worle.”

The extensive renovations include improving brickwork, carrying out roof and floor repair work, and refurbishing the windows, a HM Courts and Tribunals Service spokesperson previously said.

The maintenance project started back in February 2022 and in April 2023 a decision was taken to close the site temporarily and move the work to other sites, but a flooring inspection meant the closure was brought forward.

The building is owned by Somerset Council and is on a 999-year lease to the Ministry of Justice.