Award-winning engineering design consultancy Hydrock has strengthened its presence in the UK with a major acquisition.

The firm has acquired Yorkshire-based MRB Consulting Engineers, a 20-strong team which focuses on delivering building services design and environmental engineering consultancy services on a wide range of property schemes both in northern England and across the UK.

This acquisition strengthens both Hydrock's energy and sustainability offering in the built environment and existing UK office network by adding a base in Yorkshire.

Commenting on the deal, Dr Brian McConnell, Hydrock's CEO, said: "This is a great strategic move for both Hydrock and MRB. It provides us with a base in a key geographic location giving access to the strong property development market in and around Leeds and across Yorkshire. It also enables MRB to realise their growth plan which is fuelled by the strong relationships they have established over the past 12 years with a high calibre set of clients.


"Our new colleagues from MRB are warmly welcomed into the Hydrock team. Our cultural values and the way we build relationships with clients has been core to the long-term success of Hydrock. Having spent time with MRB's leadership team I know we are aligned in these areas and this will make the transition for both clients and staff very easy."

MRB Managing Director, John McElwee will continue to lead the company as Hydrock MRB as a separate operating division for the foreseeable future.

Mr McElwee added: "I am very proud of the business we have developed at MRB. Joining Hydrock, a well-respected, employee-focused company, is the perfect next step for the ambitions of our team and the growth of our client offer. I've got to know several of the Hydrock senior team over the past few months, and the obvious synergies in our staff culture and client approach makes me very excited for the future."

(CM/MH)