The £1.2bn revenue group, which includes Morrison Utilities, has completed nine acquisition in just over two years.

Antagrade is one of the leading providers of specialist traction power infrastructure services. It has successfully worked with Network Rail and several private rail systems, including Docklands Light Railway, Manchester Metrolink, Mersey Rail and the Tyne and Wear Metro.

The firm will retain its brand identity and continue to operate as a standalone specialist services business, forming part of M Group Services’ transport division.

The move strengthens the division which includes Dyer & Butler, a multi-disciplined engineering services specialist focused on essential infrastructure including airports, railways and highways.

Neil Edwards, managing director of M Group Services’ transport division, said: “Antagrade’s specialist expertise and service offering will broaden the transport division’s existing scope of capability, complementing perfectly the essential infrastructure, maintenance and renewal services that we provide through Dyer & Butler.

“This acquisition creates the platform to broaden our service offering to key network operators, while supporting the group’s ongoing growth strategy for the transport sector.”

Antagrade managing director Ian Drover, who will remain within the same role, added: “We look forward to forging a strong partnership with M Group Services as we embark on the next phase of our sustainable long-term growth, offering our specialist services to key network operators and their strategic suppliers across the UK.”

Matt Strong, a member of Antagrade’s founding family will also remain with the business in the role of operations director.