Environment consultants in buy-out

ECUS – the Environmental Consultancy University of Sheffield – began life 21 years ago as part of the University’s landscape department.

Over the years, the Fulwood Road-based company has gained a reputation as an inter-disciplinary environmental consultancy.

The business now employs 22 professional staff, providing a range of ecological and landscape architecture services, including environmental impact assessment, contaminated land investigation, environmental management and environmental training.

Clients come from both the public and private sectors and includes Bovis, Sheffield City Council, Taylor Woodrow, Yorkshire Water, Costain, Environment Agency, Caterpillar, British Waterways, Henry Boot Developments, Tarmac and the BBC.

Managing director Chris Routh said: “It is fantastic for the Staff and Directors of ECUS to have our own independent corporate identity as well as being involved in share ownership.

“The University of Sheffield retains a small shareholding which maintains our ability to combine ECUS’ skills with the world-class environmental expertise and facilities at the University.

“This is a great asset for the business and it is important to both organisations that we continue to maintain strong links.”

ECUS’ management team was advised by John Phillips from Mercia Corporate Finance and James Bullock of Hlw Commercial Lawyers, of Sheffield.

Investment support for the buyout was provided by RBS Natwest and South Yorkshire Investment Fund.