The Scottish Court Service has proposed to close Alloa Sheriff Court. The move is part of a nationwide restructuring of the service to cut costs and modernise the system. Under the plans, business would be transferred to Stirling Sheriff Court and Falkirk Sheriff Court. Civil and summary matters would be dealt with in Stirling and solemn matters (Sheriff and Jury trials) in Falkirk. See Alloa Advertiser campaign launch We believe the plan would: * Increase travel time for witnesses and accused - e.g. an extra 30 minutes for some travelling from the Hillfoots to Stirling. * Increase travel costs for witnesses and accused - e.g. either £8.30 (return) by bus or £4.10 by train on peak times from Alloa to Stirling. * Impact on the most vulnerable in Clackmannanshire, including those involved with child care cases * Increase costs to the Legal Aid Board * Stretch police resources * Impact on time of social services and solicitors Join the Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser campaign to keep Alloa Sheriff Court open. Sign the petition below.