Two of Ireland’s major construction companies are to combine as Sisk has reached an agreement to acquire Farrans Construction.

Northern Ireland-based building and civil engineering contractor Farrans employs 625 staff, working in core sectors including aviation, water and renewable energy in Ireland and the UK.

As part of the sale, which is subject to relevant regulatory approval, the Farrans business will continue to trade under its own brand and all project operations will continue as normal. The consideration will not be disclosed.

Dublin-based Sisk is a construction and civil engineering company, operating across Ireland, the UK and Europe. It is acquiring Farrans from the building materials provider CRH.

Sisk says the coming together of the two contracting businesses will “unlock new opportunities” for delivering major infrastructure projects across the UK and Ireland.

Paul Brown, CEO of Sisk, said: “The acquisition of Farrans represents an excellent opportunity for Sisk to broaden its sectoral reach across the UK and Ireland. Their strong reputation and track record in delivering complex infrastructure projects aligns well with our strategic growth ambitions.

“This acquisition creates significant opportunity to capitalise on the growing aviation, energy, water and utility sector markets, leveraging the combined capability and highly skilled workforce.”

Dominic Lavery, Farrans managing director, added: “This is a positive development for Farrans, and we believe that Sisk is the right strategic fit for our business as we look to the future. We’re pleased that Farrans' people, culture, and brand will be retained, and we look forward to working together to deliver for our clients across the UK and Ireland.”