Stockport utilities contractor makes Southern acquisition

Stockport utilities contractor, OCU Group, has announced the acquisition of Southern rival, Northavon Group, pending regulatory clearance.

Northavon provides a range of services to water companies in Southern England and Wales, including South West Water, Thames Water, Wessex Water and D?r Cymru. OCU’s acquisition will expand the market presence of the Stockport utilities contractor in South-west England and support further growth of its water and wastewater sector offer.

The deal represents OCU’s sixth and largest acquisition in the last 12 months, which has included purchases mainly in the telecoms infrastructure sector.

Michael Hughes (pictured), Chief Executive Officer of OCU Group, said:

“The water and wastewater sector is changing rapidly, and there are several factors we need to consider when operating in this area. As we head towards AMP8 in 2025, we need to innovate and increase collaboration across the industry in order to protect our water and waste-water infrastructure and support our customers achieve their own environmental goals.

“The UK’s water services have already made huge strides in the right direction, but we are keen to increase efficiency, improve water quality, and importantly, provide leading service levels for our customers.

“This latest acquisition will enhance the expertise our clients want and deserve.  It’s an exciting time for OCU and I’m looking forward to working with Mike Clancy and the wider Northavon team as we expand our water and wastewater capabilities.”

Mike Clancy, Group Managing Director of Somerset-based Northavon, which will be rebranded to OCU Northavon following the acquisition, said: 

“We are absolutely committed to providing our clients with the most comprehensive and dynamic capital project and maintenance support available. With less than two years to go until AMP8, we have huge potential to streamline ways of working to create an environment that both meets regulatory requirements and gives the best service for our customers.

“OCU is focused on growing across water and energy-related sectors to increase its expertise and support societal and environmental goals. We’re excited to now be part of the Group that shares our commitment to a greener and cleaner future and look forward to seeing what projects we can deliver together.”

Adrian O’Sullivan, Managing Director of OCU Utility Services added:

“The experience and expertise Northavon has across the water space is both impressive and exciting. As we head towards Net Zero, it will be great to merge our teams, share learnings and inspire each other as we solve the challenges facing the industry.”