Surveying specialist grows reach with Gwalia deal

A surveying and geospatial specialist has expanded its regional footprint with the acquisition of a long-established Welsh consultancy.

Plowman Craven has bought Gwalia Surveyors, with the business set to continue operating as Gwalia Surveyors, part of Plowman Craven.

Founded in 1982 by Bruce Lane and later led by his son Llŷr Lane, Gwalia has provided surveying and consultancy services to construction and infrastructure projects worth almost £3 billion.

Bosses say the acquisition will bring Gwalia’s experienced team into Plowman Craven, expanding its geographic reach while giving clients access to broader surveying, geospatial and digital expertise.

David Locker, chief executive of Plowman Craven, headquartered in Harpenden, in Hertfordshire said: “Gwalia has built an outstanding reputation based on technical quality, trusted client relationships, and a commitment to delivering work to the highest standards. 

“There is a strong alignment between our two businesses, particularly in our approach to clients, innovation, and people. 

“Bringing Gwalia into Plowman Craven strengthens our capabilities and geographic reach, while giving the team access to the scale, technology, and breadth of expertise of the wider business.

“We are delighted to welcome Llŷr and the team to Plowman Craven and look forward to building on the strong foundations they have created.”

Llŷr added: “My father established Gwalia almost 45 years ago and cemented its reputation on technical ability, trust, and doing things properly. 

“To take that heritage and secure its future as part of a business with the standing and 60-plus-year history of Plowman Craven feels like the right next chapter.

“I’m particularly proud that our people, who have shown incredible loyalty and played such an important part in Gwalia’s success, will continue that journey. 

“There is a huge amount of knowledge and experience within the team, and I’m excited to see what they can achieve with the additional scale, expertise, and opportunities available within Plowman Craven.”

Gwalia has worked on major projects including BBC Broadcasting House in London, Cardiff’s Principality Stadiumand the Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre.

More recent schemes include Cardiff Central Square, The Triangle at Canary Wharf and John Lewis Birmingham.

The deal forms part of Plowman Craven’s wider UK growth strategy, while allowing Gwalia’s clients to maintain existing relationships and benefit from the additional capabilities of the enlarged business.

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