Leeds fibre networks specialist set for "bright future" after acquisition by UK internet group

A Leeds fibre networks company has announced that it is predicting a “bright future” after being acquired by a UK internet provider.

Concept Solutions People (CSP), which designs and builds bespoke fibre networks for councils, data centres, ISPs, and universities, has been acquired by Glide Group for an undisclosed amount.

CSP, to be renamed Glide Fibre, has already built over 100 kilometres of owned duct network in 27 locations.

Steve Ives, founder of CSP, commented: “We share the vision that Glide has to build high quality, high-capacity networks across the UK.

“For the past ten years, our team have been building these networks and we are pleased to be part of Glide to build even more network.”

Tim Pilcher, CEO of Glide Group, said: “When we met Dave and Steve, we knew that we had found the right partners to help us grow and expand our network further and faster than we could on our own.

“The team has a wealth of experience and knowledge that is invaluable to our ambitions to build fibre in difficult to serve and hard to reach areas.

“Our investors, Alinda Capital Partners who purchased Glide in 2020, invest in asset-rich infrastructure that will provide a lasting return for the next 20-30 years and this acquisition suited those criteria well.”

CSP was advised by a team of Yorkshire advisers including Ian Parsons of Parsons Chartered Accountants in Wakefield, with legal advice provided by Laurie Dale and Amy Buttrick of Clarion. Glide was advised on the transaction by Grant Thornton and Addleshaw Goddard.

Laurie Dale, legal director in Clarion’s corporate team, added: “As part of such a large, well-resourced ISP, Glide Fibre has a bright future ahead – we wish them every success.”