Dignitaries gathered at the top of Amersham’s new multi-storey car park this week for a milestone ceremony celebrating the near-completion of the development.

Chiltern District Council’s (CDC) environment chief, Mike Smith, added the final piece to the structure of the building in King George V Road at a ‘topping out’ ceremony on Wednesday.

The age-old tradition marks the moment a new structure reaches its maximum height, with members from the town and district councils and construction company Balfour Beatty joining together to mark the occasion.

Cllr Smith gave a short speech, thanking residents for their patience during the construction – as some of the existing multi-storey had to be closed off while the building work takes place.

He said: “I am delighted to say the works are on time, on budget and Balfour Beatty have a very good safety record…

“Unavoidably [ground floor spaces] had to be closed for this construction, and that added to the parking problems somewhat in Amersham.

“But I hope residents have realised that that is necessary to actually achieve a longer term solution.

“I would like to thank the residents for bearing with us during this period.”

The 680-space car park is being extended by another 502 spaces due to growing demand from commuters travelling into London.

Mayor of Amersham, Caroline Jones, said the development will be a “huge boost” to the town and will alleviate residents’ parking woes.

She added: “Of course it will also benefit commuters who do use Amersham a lot to get into London from the station.

“It is a huge boost to Amersham, a fabulous facility and one that is much needed. It is thanks to the district council we have this now and people are really appreciating it.

“I would also add Balfour Beatty have been fabulous for the work they have done, working with the community, making sure there is not too much noise and being considerate.”

The car park is expected to be finished in November in time for the busy festive period.