PROFESSIONAL services teams in York have overseen the merger of two architectural practices to create a national consultancy headquartered in Leeds.

Darnton EGS and B3 Architects have joined forces to create DarntonB3, which will operate from 11 UK offices, with 150 staff and nine directors.

The deal was brokered by York accountants and advisers JWP Creers, and York law firm Andrew Jackson Solicitors, with funding from the city's commercial branch of HSBC.

JWP Creers corporate finance partner Tony Farmer, who supported Darnton EGS, said: "We worked closely with Darnton EGS to find the right partner and we are delighted with the outcome, especially as we advised on the merger to create Darnton EGS Ltd seven years ago."

Also advising on the merger were members of law firm Andrew Jackson's corporate team, led by partner Philip Ashworth and supported by Grace Howell.

Mr Ashworth said: "We have advised Darnton EGS over a number of years. The deal, which was completed to timescales, creates a business with a strong office portfolio."