Reading Crown Court — Reading Better

Reading Crown Court's "Reading Better" initiative is a designed to tackle a record-breaking case backlog by expediting hearings for specific low-complexity offenses. By dedicating one of its eight courtrooms to this initiative, the facility aims to resolve cases where evidence suggests a trial might be avoided, ensuring more efficient delivery of justice for the Berkshire community. The Crisis: Addressing the Judicial Backlog

Beyond the procedural "Reading Better" pilot, physical redevelopments are underway to ensure the facility remains fit for purpose: reading crown court reading better

: Defendants on bail often face months or years of uncertainty before their cases are heard. Reading Crown Court's "Reading Better" initiative is a

: The court has six permanent courtrooms but frequently relies on adjacent Magistrates' Courts or satellite venues like Cheshunt and Watford to manage the volume. : The court has six permanent courtrooms but

: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (closes at 4:30 pm on Fridays).