Yesterday saw the topping out ceremony for the new Library and Student Services Centre at Royal Holloway University of London.

So far the project has seen 1,243 tonnes of steel reinforcements installed, 6,720 cubic metres of concrete poured and 11,250 cubic metres of earth excavated.

The ceremony was attended by the University staff and design team, witnessing a ceremonial pour of concrete by Principal Paul Layzell. Main contractor Osborne Construction commissioned a huge lemon cake for the event – a scale model of the building. Chairman Andrew Osborne offered a summary of the ancient origins of topping out ceremonies including from Scandinavia where traditionally a fir tree was raised to the top of the building.

Warren Jukes, Project Director said “Marking a key milestone in the project such as the completion of the concrete frame is important. It allows the whole project team to pause and appreciate what they have achieved in only 9 months.”