Engineers named the best of British (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Engineers named the best of British

AN ENGINEERING consultancy firm with a Swindon branch has been named as Britain's best by a leading trade magazine.

Owen Williams, which is responsible for the inspection and assessment of bridges and tunnels on the Great Western Railway, was named Consultant of the Year by New Civil Engineer magazine.

The award is a major coup for the firm, which has its Swindon offices in Station Road. It has generated hundreds of new jobs in just 12 months and increased turnover by 50 per cent in three years.

The company is firmly established in four key market sectors: rail, highways, property and facilities management.

In last month's presentation ceremony, magazine editor Antony Oliver said: "Last year was defining for Owen Williams.

"The company along with others short-listed showed great business growth in 2003 and demonstrated that it was more effective and efficient than it was 12 months ago."

Owen Williams beat 300 other consultancies to the prize.

All had completed detailed questionnaires across a broad range of performance and business-related criteria.

Chief executive, Richard Williams said: "I am delighted to have won this award and accept it on behalf of every member of staff.

"It is a great achievement that sums up the dedication and commitment of everyone in the company."

Formed in 1919, the company has been responsible for many notable projects including the M1 motorway, Gravelly Hill Interchange better known as Spaghetti Junction and the original Wembley Stadium. It is currently completing work on the new M6 toll road.

It employs about 80 people in its Swindon office.