Expansion drive sees engineering and construction firm launch Yorkshire base

Glasgow-headquartered ground engineering and construction company, Akela Group, has hit the first key milestone in its plans for expansion into the English market with the unveiling of its new office in Leeds.

The company is moving into premises at Moorfield Business Park, next to Leeds Bradford Airport.

The base was carefully selected to act as a hub in the North of England, as the company rolls out its expansion plans to service the UK-wide audience.

Akela Group currently operates across Scotland and is one of the country’s largest multi-disciplinary construction services and civil engineering companies, with over 300 employees, including a total of over 40 apprentices.

Its Leeds team will be led by construction manager, Martin Leahy.

He brings over 15 years industry experience having previously worked with the Robertson Group and Laing O’Rourke, delivering high-value projects for complex builds across a diverse range of sectors.

Further plans to expand the Leeds-based team are expected as operations continue to grow and develop in the coming months.

Having established the new base, Akela Ground Engineering, part of the Akela Group, has already completed its first contract in Knaresborough and is currently tendering for a variety of housing and commercial build contracts throughout Yorkshire.

Mark Markey

Mark Markey, Akela Group managing director, said: “We are seeing increased levels of demand for the wide range of ground engineering and civil engineering services, particularly in the North of England, and this move supports our ambitions to expand the company and meet the growing demand.

“Having Martin on board to lead the new North of England team will drive the delivery of services to meet industry demand.

“He brings a wealth of experience and I am confident he will play a pivotal role in growing the business, which will also bring an abundance of employment opportunities and economic benefits to the region and beyond.”

Leahy added: “It’s an exciting time for the Akela Group and there is a huge opportunity to grow the business in the North and I am delighted to be leading the team at the new Leeds hub.

“I am passionate about collaboration and delivering insightful solutions for clients and l look forward to working on a wide range of projects as we realise the growth ambitions in the North of England.”