The prosecution of Waltham Forest council for allegedly failing to protect staff from deadly asbestos is due to begin today.

The authority has admitted it knew about the presence of the deadly substance at the town hall in Forest Road, Walthamstow.

However, staff at Waltham Forest council were not prevented from entering affected areas of the building between 1984 and 2012.

The council has claimed it was believed the asbestos was within acceptable levels.

A survey carried out in January 2012 ahead of major works revealed asbestos in the basement, boiler room, generator room, cable room, print room and lobby of the building.

Documents were also found covered with asbestos dust.

The prosecution has been brought by the Health and Safety Executive following a Freedom of Information request by a resident.

He was informed the council could not access relevant files due to the presence of asbestos dust.

The union UNISON had members working in the area of the Town Hall that was affected.

Dave Knight, Branch Secretary of UNISON said, “The risks associated with asbestos are well known.

“The local branch of UNISON is appalled that the Council should find itself in this position having seemingly failed to deal with the safe management of asbestos in its own town hall.”

An initial hearing was scheduled for September 16, which was adjourned.

The council will appear in court today at Westminster Magistrates Court.