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The UK's Leading Civil Engineering Companies

UK city construction site

The UK is home to some of the most prominent civil engineering companies, each with a rich history and specialization. Here's an overview of the top ten firms, their founding details, turnover, and areas of expertise


 

The Top 10 Largest Civil Engineering Companies by Revenue




Founded: 1909


Founders: George Balfour and Andrew Beatty


Specialization: Infrastructure development, including roads, railways, power, and water systems.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £8.3 billion

  • 2022: £8.5 billion

  • 2023: £8.7 billion


Employees: Approximately 26,000



Founded: 1928


Founders: J.L. Kier and J. Lotz


Specialization: Construction, infrastructure services, and property development, focusing on education, health, and housing sectors.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £3.3 billion

  • 2022: £3.5 billion

  • 2023: £3.6 billion


Employees: Approximately 10,218



Founded: 1977


Founder: John Morgan


Specialization: Construction and regeneration, including affordable housing, urban regeneration, and infrastructure services.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £3.2 billion

  • 2022: £3.4 billion

  • 2023: £3.5 billion


Employees: Approximately 6,600



Founded: 1887


Founder: Rudolf Fredrik Berg


Specialization: Construction and development, focusing on building, civil infrastructure, and utilities.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £1.8 billion

  • 2022: £1.9 billion

  • 2023: £2.0 billion


Employees: Approximately 3,300



Founded: 1865


Founder: Richard Costain


Specialization: Smart infrastructure solutions, integrating technology with engineering in transportation, energy, and water sectors.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £1.1 billion

  • 2022: £1.2 billion

  • 2023: £1.3 billion


Employees: Approximately 3,400



Founded: 1978


Founder: Ray O'Rourke


Specialization: Engineering, construction, and asset management, with projects in healthcare, education, and commercial sectors.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £2.5 billion

  • 2022: £2.6 billion

  • 2023: £2.7 billion


Employees: Approximately 12,000



Founded: 1869


Founder: Sir Robert McAlpine


Specialization: Building and civil engineering, focusing on commercial, residential, and infrastructure projects.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £1.0 billion

  • 2022: £1.1 billion

  • 2023: £1.2 billion


Employees: Approximately 2,000



Founded: 1921


Founder: William Charles Amey


Specialization: Infrastructure support services, including highways, rail, utilities, and facilities management.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £2.2 billion

  • 2022: £2.3 billion

  • 2023: £2.4 billion


Employees: Approximately 16,000



Founded: 1990


Founder: Ian Macpherson


Specialization: Consultancy and construction services, with expertise in project management, cost consultancy, and facilities management.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £1.9 billion

  • 2022: £2.0 billion

  • 2023: £2.1 billion


Employees: Approximately 6,000



Founded: 1884


Founder: Edmund Nuttall


Specialization: Construction and support services, including facilities management and

equipment services.


Turnover:

  • 2021: £1.5 billion

  • 2022: £1.6 billion

  • 2023: £1.7 billion


Employees: Approximately 45,000


 

Conclusion


These companies are at the forefront of civil engineering in the UK, combining a legacy of innovation with modern solutions. From smart infrastructure to large-scale construction projects, their contributions are pivotal in shaping the country’s landscape.


Each firm demonstrates a strong commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, with extensive workforces driving their success.


 

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