A NEW court created in Taunton to speed up the justice system during the Covid pandemic is hearing cases this week. Taunton Nightingale court will act as a magistrates court and a crown court, hearing all types of cases. It is one of 42 temporary courtrooms nationwide as part of the Government s plans to ensure justice continues throughout the crisis. The Somerset County Council-owned property adjoining the permanent Taunton Magistrates Courts was previously used to train councillors in how to write budgets and deliver speeches. As well as providing vital capacity to minimise delays, Taunton Nightingale Court will enable more socially distanced trials to take place, ensuring justice continues to be served.