As pupils return to school this week, one Hereford primary remains in a state of ongoing repair as the full cost of dealing with its asbestos problem has emerged.

Up to £370,000 is being spent on putting right ceilings and roofs at the post-war Hampton Dene Primary School, Tupsley, according to Herefordshire Council.

A survey earlier identified two separate parts of the building where asbestos had to be removed. The work on the larger area was completed during the summer holidays, but work on the second area will have to wait until the October half term, the council said.

The main contract for the work, which has required removing upper-floor ceilings and lighting, went to SC Joseph Ltd, which has previously carried out work at the school.

“Our contractors carry out the removal works during the school holidays in accordance with health and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of staff, pupils and visitors, and so the normal term-time operation of the school is not disrupted,” according to a council spokesperson.

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The confirmation of asbestos meant the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) had to be notified, the council said, adding the HSE “has powers to prosecute if it suspects that employers are in breach of any health and safety legislation and regulations”.

The budgeted figure for the work of £352,000 included a contingency figure of £32,000 in case further asbestos was identified during the work, while up to £17,500 was also earmarked for professional and statutory fees, the council said.