The Department of Labour made the decision to close the court as a result of asbestos health hazards. 

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development engaged the Department of Public Works who are the owners of government building to address the challenge.

Public Works have since contracted an accredited and competent service provider to remove all asbestos material in the building.

The construction commenced last December with contractors working tirelessly ensuring that they leave no stone unturned. 

The Department of Public Works announced on Wednesday that the inspectors from the Department of Labour certified the building safe to use. 

This was done after an Independent Inspecting Authority, that is accredited by the SANAS, issued a clearance certificate that the court was free of asbestos and can now be re-occupied.

Head of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development in North West, Tsietsi Malema, said he is delighted that his department managed to expediently resolve the challenge before the confirmed period. 

“I would like to apologise to the community members, staff members, both internal and external stakeholders for the inconvenience caused during the asbestos clearing process. The reopening of the court within two months of its closure has been an exceptional collaborative effort. We will ensure that our clients continue to receive quality court services," said Malema.

All cases which were transferred from Rustenburg to Koster and Swartruggens Magistrate's Courts will now be moved back to Rustenburg Magistrate's Court, the same applies to cases which were moved to Civic Centre and Traffic Court. The office of the Family Advocate, as well as the Public Prosecutor, will also be returning back to the Rustenburg Magistrate's Court.

“We wish to inform all our clients that the court will resume normal operations on 1 February 2017. The department wishes to thank all the parties that were involved in ensuring that our communities continue to have access to justice and receive uninterrupted service delivery,” added the department's regional spokesperson, Thabo Seadira.

Statement issued