‘Maggots raining down’: survey lays bare dire state of courts in England and Wales

South Tyneside law courts, where rotting seagulls within the roof insulation caused a maggot infestation. Photograph: Washington Imaging/Alamy

Asbestos, mould, rotten seagulls and cells flooding with excrement are among the problems experienced in crumbling courts in England and Wales, the Law Society has found.

The professional body for solicitors said deteriorating buildings and unreliable technology were contributing to the record backlog in crown courts and undermining confidence and trust in the justice system.