Are Building readers aware of the implications of the takeover of Davis Langdon by Aecom?

Despite the considerable space Building allocated to the takeover of Davis Langdon by Aecom (13 August, page 24), I think many readers will be none the wiser about why this (for the QS profession) massive takeover occurred and the implications for the future.

It may be simply a sign that professional services are becoming as global as the rest of commerce. But the wider picture is of a profession which, until now, has flourished because of its integrity and independence. Several of your client commentators have expressed concern that these qualities should not be lost.

What worries me in all this speculation is that QSs no longer have a forum to share their thoughts on such fundamental issues. Agenda for Change saw the profession capitulate to a regime which permitted no dialogue and did all it could to emasculate quantity surveying as a part of the RICS.

When are the movers and shakers in the profession going to get off their backsides and re-invent the real profession base that used to serve us?