DUDLEY’s historical coroner’s court will be throwing open its doors to the public as part of the national Heritage Open Day.

The event – taking place on Saturday, September 9 – is a celebration of the country’s architecture and culture, and venues not usually open to the public allow access to enable visitors to discover the hidden treasures lying within.

Dudley Coroner’s Court, located in St James’s Road, is a Grade II listed building and was designed by Harvey & Wicks before being built between 1924 and 1928 as part of the civic quadrant.

The open day is a rare opportunity for visitors to view the largely unchanged courtroom, which retains its original fittings and furnishings.

Cllr Ian Kettle, cabinet member for planning and economic development, said: “This is a fabulous opportunity for anyone interested in history, architecture or the law to come in and view this lovely building, which is normally closed to the general public.

“Dudley borough has a very proud heritage and many historically important buildings, and it is important the council opens its doors to visitors so people can come and look around. We should all celebrate our heritage.”

Anyone wishing to view the building should turn up at the venue between 10am and 4pm and no booking is required, although a maximum of 15 per tour will be admitted.

Two historically important churches in Dudley town centre are also opening up as part of Heritage Open Day.

The Church of St Thomas, known locally as ‘Top Church’, and the Church of St Edmund, otherwise known as ‘Bottom Church’, were both built on ancient sites of worship and will hold heritage tours to enable guests to see areas not usually open to the general public.