The structure, erected by Beacon Scaffolding, came down at around 7.30am yesterday on Stoke Newington High Street.

The scaffold had been erected around the local Grade II-listed library to support roof and fabric repairs.

Emergency services were called to reports of a man trapped inside the van, but he managed to get out safely before fire crews arrived.

An eyewitness told the Evening Standard: “It happened right in front of my eyes. It was about 7.30am and it was really windy.

“It just ripped off and banged on the floor.

“There was a vehicle passing through. I ran to it and tried to see if he was okay. He wasn’t injured but he was shaken.“

The witness said two or three pedestrians also had to run clear to avoid being struck.

The Health and Safety Executive is now investigating the incident.