ONE of Lydney’s leading employers has been taken over by a rival company.

Mabey Bridge, a subsidiary of Mabey Holdings Ltd, a fourth-generation family-owned global bridge and engineering services group, based in Harbour Road has been acquired by Acrow Bridge, a leading international bridge engineering and supply company.

Both firms will continue to operate under their own brands.

Combining the two companies which both specialise in pre-engineered modular bridging systems, will create a prominent global provider operated by a team with the ability to offer a more extensive infrastructure solutions.

Juliette Stacey, group chief executive of Mabey Holdings Ltd was pleased with the outcome of the negotiations and said: “Due to our admiration for the strength of competition with Acrow over the years we believe this is the best solution in strengthening the future of both businesses.”

Acrow said that uniting the companies would provide customers with solutions that are based on a more expansive global reach.

The move comes after a decision by the Mabey shareholders to sell their interest in the bridge manufacturing business. The financial terms of the deal are not being disclosed.