Proposals to merge the Association of Consulting Engineers (ACE) and the British Consultants’ Bureau (BCB) have been dropped. The decision was recently announced to the press by the chairmen of the two organisations.
The following joint statement was issued by ACE chairman Jim Dawson and BCB chairman Peter Garret: " Long and detailed discussions have been held over the last two years. These revealed that, whilst most members of both organisations recognise substantial advantages in a proposed merger, a significant proportion have serious reservations.
We have concluded therefore that a merger is not achievable."
The reservations expressed referred to ACE’s and BCB’s differing future plans. Ace plans to focus on the business interests and professional standing of consulting engineers, primarily in the UK and Europe. The BCB is intent on furthering international success of consultants of all disciplines.
The statement concluded: "The priority now for both ACE and BCB is to focus on our primary objectives of providing the best possible services to our members. Part of that focus will include co-operation with each other on appropriate issues."
