BUILDING services business Wolseley UK has received clearance from the Office of Fair Trading to acquire 22 Burdens branches.

The Ripon-based business bought the branches for £30 million in early November before Burdens appointed administrators later in the month.

Steve Ashmore, managing director of Wolseley UK, said Burdens’ product range complemented Drain Center’s products.

Mr Ashmore said: “The deal is in line with Wolseley UK’s strategy to develop leading market positions in all of its businesses and we are looking forward to the growth opportunities ahead.”