Birmingham project manager Graves is to merge with Elias Topping to create a single £4m-turnover business.
The firms claimed that the merger, which will be formalised in September, will create the largest independent project manager and QS in the West Midlands. The duo aims to enlarge its combined turnover to the £6-7m mark.

The move comes after Graves restructured to raise capital for acquisitions and expansion. The firm aims to offer staff shares in the company, which was previously a family-owned business.

Graves chief executive Richard Graves said he had admired his Birmingham rival for some time.

If we are going to grow, we should work together rather than in competition

Richard Graves, chief executive, Graves

He said: "We have known and genuinely respected Elias Topping for many years. If we are going to grow, I genuinely believe that as niche players, we should work together rather than in competition."

The board of the newly merged firm will include Richard Graves, his father and founder Francis, fellow director Andrew Pearson and Elias Topping founder Neville Topping. Elias Topping, which was created in 1990, has worked on high-profile projects such as the £100m Mailbox mixed-use scheme and the redevelopment of Birmingham's Hippodrome theatre.