Bolton's crown court has re-opened, as the criminal justice system continues to expand its work during the coronavirus crisis.
It comes as the pandemic has contributed to an already growing backlog of cases.
Officials are also investigating potential locations for 'nightingale courts', such as civic centres or university moot courts, so more cases can be heard while observing social distancing.
Judges from Bolton Crown Court were temporarily presiding over hearings at Manchester's two crown courts since March, as HM Courts & Tribunals Service acted after the lockdown was imposed.
But the town's magistrates court, which is housed within the same building, remains temporarily closed.
Criminal cases have continued to be heard using video conferencing technology.
Barristers have mainly appearing in court remotely, but some have started to physically attend court again.
Defendants on bail have also been appearing in court, with those on remand in prison continuing to appear via video link.
Jury trials have also recommenced, after they were postponed in line with public health advice.
Last month Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court was one of the first to hold a jury trial since the lockdown.
It's thought that trials could return to Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square by the end of the month.
The country's most senior judge, the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales, Lord Burnett of Maldon, said: "This is a very welcome step towards reopening all our court buildings.
"A remarkable volume of work has continued throughout the lockdown, much of it being conducted by judges from home.
"Reopening all of the court estate, using additional accommodation and continuing to use technology imaginatively will enable us to return to and surpass pre-lockdown volumes, helping manage the growing caseload."
HMCTS said that a working group including court officials, judges, legal professional bodies, representatives of victims’ groups and other court users will assess the proposals for nightingale courts.
The Lord Chancellor, Robert Buckland MP added: "Throughout the coronavirus outbreak, court staff and the judiciary have worked tirelessly to make sure justice has not stood still and I’m pleased that we are now in a position to reopen more of our buildings.
"A functioning justice system is one of the hallmarks of a healthy democracy and today’s update will give confidence to people up and down the country that justice can continue to be done in a way that is safe for all court users."
