Canadian sustainable design and engineering consultant Stantec has acquired UK consultant Hydrock.

The deal expands Stantec’s UK workforce by around a third as 950 staff join from Bristol-headquartered Hydrock.

Founded in 1995 by Dr Brian McConnell, who now retires, Hydrock operates nationwide from 22 locations providing sustainable solutions for major projects across the public and private sectors.

Hydrock brings capabilities in fire safety, energy and sustainability, civil and structural, MEP, transport, environmental, and geotechnical services.

The acquisition will increase Stantec UK’s offering to the energy, buildings, and infrastructure markets, as well as the wider built environment.

Stantec has been actively expanding in the UK since 2016, acquiring MWH, ESI, Peter Brett Associates, and Barton Willmore.

Across the wider group, Stantec now employs more than 30,000 people working from over 450 offices worldwide generating revenue of $5.1bn.

Gord Johnston, Stantec’s president and chief executive officer, said: “When combined with the strategic acquisitions of ZETCON and Morrison Hershfield, we will have grown our global workforce by over 2,700 people within the first four months of 2024, further strengthening our offering in line with market demands.”

As the UK transitions to a low-carbon economy and the country’s requirements for future-proofed utilities, infrastructure, and communities grow, the addition of Hydrock allows Stantec to diversify and expand its offering.

Dr Scott Elliott, managing director of Hydrock, now Stantec, said: “Through our integration, we’ll be able to expand our reach and influence internationally, penetrate exciting new markets, and provide excellent new career opportunities for our people.”