THE Martin Stancliffe Architects business, of York, has been bought out by leading conservation architects, Purcell Miller Tritton.

The two practices, which have been working together for the past three years on contracts at St Paul's Cathedral, Selby Abbey and at Ballyfin House in County Laois, south west of Dublin, will now form a single business specialising in the care of historic buildings.

Both have been united in their approach to the careful conservation of historic buildings and to sensitive design in historic settings.

The merger, which became official yesterday, will result in a new nameplate at the York practice in Marygate, namely Purcell Miller Tritton.

Martin Stancliffe, founder of the York practice, will continue as a partner and none of the 17 jobs there will be affected.

Mr Stancliffe is well-known for his role as Surveyor to the Fabric at St Paul's Cathedral - a role mirrored by two of Purcell Miller Tritton's partners who hold similar positions at Westminster Abbey, Canterbury and Ely Cathedrals.

As well as St Paul's, the portfolio of Martin Stancliffe Architects includes some of the most prestigious buildings in the North of England.

From its regional offices, Purcell Miller Tritton works on some of the country's best-known historic properties, including St George's Hall, Liverpool; Christ Church, Spitalfields; the National Gallery; Knole in Kent; as well as Scott's and Shackleton's huts in the Antarctic.

Mr Stancliffe said: "We are all looking forward to this exciting joint venture, which will bring together two of the country's leading firms of conservation architects."

Mark Goldspink, Liverpool-based management partner of Purcell Miller Tritton, said that the practice was already well represented in the south of England and in the north-west, so the York office would be an excellent fit with the rest of the business.

"We aim to continue to give the same high standard of service to all the clients of both practices. There will be no job cuts as a result of this merger, but perhaps we can cut down on some of the staff travelling time which should be to everyone's benefit".

Updated: 11:00 Friday, December 03, 2004