Centrica takes on Connaught’s gas safety arm
THE OWNER of British Gas has bought a chunk of Connaught’s surviving business and taken on 600 employees, the energy giant announced yesterday.
Centrica paid £11.2m yesterday for the gas and electrical safety branch of Connaught Compliance, one of the few parts of the firm to escape administration. It has also bought Connaught’s training academy in south Wales.
British Gas said the move gives it a platform to develop its business energy services. “It is great news for the people at Connaught, its customers and for British Gas Business’s existing customers,” said Kanat Emiroglu, managing director of British Gas Business.
The company did not look at the other branches of Connaught Compliance, which will continue to operate as a standalone firm with 1,300 employees after agreeing further funding with lenders.
Morgan Sindall is still in talks with local authorities to take over 93 of Connaught’s social housing contracts, after agreeing to take on the work ealier this month. Several councils have expressed concern that the deal could breach EU procurement law.