[1][2] However, as the number of court cases in Plymouth grew in the first half of the 20th century, it became necessary to commission a more modern courthouse for criminal matters.

[7] The new building was designed by the city architect, Hector Stirling, built by Costain Group in grey stone and glass, and was officially opened by the Master of the Rolls, Lord Denning, on 16 April 1963.

A large latticework incorporating the city's coat of arms was projected forward over the entrance.

The building was fenestrated on both floors by a continuous band of casement windows with grey stone panels above and below.

[13][14] They have also included the trial and conviction of Anthony Brinton, in October 2020, for the murder of his partner's flatmate, Adrian Cieslik, using a hammer in the attack.