BEIJING, Jan. 30 (Xinhua) -- The Supreme People's Court (SPC) announced Thursday that its venues for offering litigation services and receiving public visits have been temporarily closed due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The move is aimed at reducing personnel gathering and mobility to better protect the safety and health of those engaged or planning to engage in litigation, the SPC said in a circular.

During the closure, the parties concerned can submit materials and apply for other litigation services via the SPC's litigation service website or by letters. A service hotline is also open for consultations.

The venues will be reopened at a later date based on the development of the epidemic, the SPC said.