A MULTI-DISCIPLINARY environmental consultancy has opened an office in Basingstoke.

Heading the Ecus team based at Eastlands II, in London Road, is technical director Paul White, who has particular expertise in conservation and environmental impact assessments.

Paul joined Ecus at the start of 2013 and successfully grew the conservation team at the consultancy’s head office in Sheffield.

Joining Paul at the new office is principal heritage consultant Nikki Cook, and the team is looking to recruit and expand further across all the environ-mental specialisms.

Paul said: “The Basing-stoke office is well placed to service the south and south east and we are not just focusing on heritage, but providing all disciplines including ecology, landscape design, tree surveys, geoscience, environmental impact assessments and management as well as addressing key issues, such as flood risk across the south east of the country.”

Ecus managing director Nick Birkinshaw said: “The Ecus team has put in an impressive performance over the past few years, and this has allowed us to accelerate expansion and strengthening our geographical coverage, enabling us to offer a high calibre and broad range of environmental services across the UK.”

Established in 1986, Ecus is a spin-out company from the University of Sheffield, now employs more than 35 staff and is planning additional recruitment and offices in 2014.