Hertfordshire-based Ashe Construction has announced a shake-up aimed at taking the company into the big time.

The company is to split into three divisions operating from offices in Southampton, London and Hitchin, Hertfordshire, with the Hitchin office overseeing the other two.

Chairman Robert Blake said the centralised structure would enable the firm to bid for larger projects.

He said: "The restructuring is not just cosmetic. It gives us a solid platform to move forward." He believes the £30m-turnover company will now have the combined financial clout to raise its sights from maximum contracts of £3m to £6m.

He added that Ashe will be looking to open a new regional office in the Midlands to boost the company's coverage over the next few years.

A further reason for expansion was to provide staff with better prospects, said Blake. "From the staff's point of view, they are now part of a bigger company with more strength and opportunities for them." Ashe's clients in the retail sector include John Lewis, Dixons and WH Smith.

The firm also carries out work in the education, healthcare, commercial property, social housing and industrial property sectors.