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Needlemans, which specialises in the transport, utility and infrastructure sectors, had net assets of 拢726,362 in the year to 31 March 2007. Its 35 staff will relocate to F+A鈥檚 London office in the next three months.

Guy Leonard, F+A鈥檚 managing director, said the acquisition was in line with the group鈥檚 aim to expand into the aviation sector. 鈥淲e want to enhance our capability and involvement in the aviation sector where Needlemans is very strong.鈥�

Barry Trebes, managing director of Needlemans, said: 鈥淲ith Mott MacDonald鈥檚 financial strength behind us, we will be able to offer a more comprehensive service.鈥�

Andrew Williams, F+A鈥檚 managing director, said Needlemans鈥� skills in the rail and utilities sectors would complement the company鈥檚.

Needlemans was established 40 years ago as a traditional QS. Its clients include BAA, EDF Energy and Tubelines and it has worked on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link and Heathrow Terminal 5. On T5, Needlemans provided services for the communications and security systems for the rail station as well as the terminal building.

We want to enhance our capability in the aviation sector, where Needlemans is very strong

Guy Leonard, Franklin + Andrews

Its aviation team has previously worked on Dublin airport, Gaza airport and Changi airport in Singapore.

The takeover is part of F+A鈥檚 broader strategy to diversify its services. Leonard said the strategy was a major factor in growing to a 拢100m-turnover business by 2010.

He added: 鈥淲e enjoy stability through our diverse sectors, probably more than most other companies.鈥�