Security at the most famous court building in the world – where the Yorkshire Ripper and Dr Crippen have stood trial – is likely to get an upgrade.
The network of courtrooms at the Old Bailey – formally known as the Central Criminal Court – has applied to put in place replacement CCTV cameras.
Infamous defendants ranging from Ruth Ellis to the Kray twins have stood in the dock at the Old Bailey.
More recently, it delivered the 2012 conviction of two men, Gary Dobson and David Norris, for the murder of Stephen Lawrence 19 years earlier.
The first court on the site was built in the 16th century.
There is already tight security at the court complex, which is dominated by the 3m high bronze statue of Lady Justice 60m above street level. She holds the sword of retribution and the scales of justice in her hands.
In 1973, the IRA planted a car bomb outside the courts. One man died from a heart attack and the damage included the destruction of Michael Mansfield QC’s car.
In a planning application filed at the City Corporation, it has applied to replace 22 closed circuit television cameras and 48 more inside the building.
It also plans to install two surface mount vehicle blockers to boost security, along with vehicular swing arm barriers at entry points.
The City Corporation runs the Old Bailey and is responsible for building and improvements at the court. The Ministry of Justice runs the other court buildings throughout the country.
The planning application, was filed last month, and will be decided under delegated powers by the beginning of April.
Cover image by Dun.can (Creative Commons).
