The major engineering and project management consultancy behind Scotland’s newest tourist attraction saw profits climb last year.
WS Atkins spent six years working in support of the Kelpies project to ensure the translation of sculptor Andy Scott’s vision into a reality.
The firm’s involvement in the constuction of the twin 200-tonne horse heads at Helix Park, Falkirk, included designing a novel support structure to allow the 30-metre tall sculptures to withstand the elements whilst providing space for visitors to walk inside.
Atkins which is also involved in the energy, public transport and communications sectors within Sotland yesterday reported a 16.5% hike in pre-tax profits to £114.2 million for the year to March 31.
The firm, which employs around 17,500 staff across its global operations, saw group-wide revenues increase by 2.6% in the period to £1.75 billion and recommended a dividend of 33.75p, a 5.5% rise on the previous year.
“We have achieved good results with growth in profits and a strong cash performance,” chairman Allan Cook and CEO Uwe Krueger said.
“We have also made significant progress in delivering our strategy across the three pillars of oeprational excellence, portfolio optimisation and growth in defined segments and regions and are confident in making further progress in the year ahead.”
Shares closed the day down 0.60% at 1,318p.