A decision to open temporary court rooms in cinemas during the pandemic has cost taxpayers almost £30million, it can be revealed.
The Odeon chain has raked in £26,166,092 over the last two years while Vue was paid £1,882,356 by the Scottish Courts service, figures uncovered by the Record show.
Jurors were unable to attend court buildings due to social distancing measures, so were forced to watch proceedings via video link in cinemas.
Some cinemas are still being used as justice centres are not expected to fully reopen until September. It comes as the courts service deals with a backlog.