A Chesham street will remain closed until just before Christmas as flood prevention works, which began on August 24 and were originally scheduled to finish this week, are not yet complete.

Work that is being carried out in Pednormead End has been delayed after an 'unexpected additional layer' of pipes, ducts and cables were discovered underneath the road.

The council have also cited effects of the coronavirus pandemic as a reason for the delay.

The scheme is intended to protect over 100 properties from flooding and renew utility company equipment in the area.

Buckinghamshire Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Nick Naylor, said: "Despite our best intentions, we have run into a number of unforeseen issues.

"Can I straight away apologise to local residents and people that use this route that we've had to extend the closure. We've had no choice unfortunately.

"The Council, Transport for Buckinghamshire and all the parties involved will be working as hard as possible to get this important work completed and I thank everyone for their patience and understanding."

Local Buckinghamshire councillor for Chiltern Ridges, Jane MacBean, said: "I know how frustrating it will be for local residents, but we all know how important this scheme is for future flood prevention in the area and the work just has to be completed despite any on-going inconvenience.

"I am in constant touch with the delivery team and know the setbacks they face, but they continue to problem solve at pace to ensure the works are completed as quickly as possible.”