Innovative fishing and engineering consultancy firm, Fishtek, has been sold to the RSK Group.

The Dartington-based Fishteck is an industry leader in the design of fish and eel passes and also provides fisheries consultancy and engineering services throughout the UK and further afield.

Established in 1999 by Pete Kibel, Fishtek works for charitable trusts, non-departmental public bodies and multiple customers within the water industry, and currently holds four framework agreements with the Environment Agency, Yorkshire Water, Affinity Water and Next Generation Consultancy Services, as well as preferred supplier status with South West Water.

In a statement, RSK says it continues to deliver its ambitious diversification strategy, and now comprises more than 130 environmental, engineering and technical services businesses that work together to provide practical solutions to some of the greatest challenges societies have ever faced.

The group has focused on the water sector in recent years and says it is excited to explore synergies between Fishtek and sister companies such as Salix, cbec, Binnies and MWH Treatment.

Fishtek’s managing director, Pete Kibel, and technical director, Toby Coe, will continue to lead the business as it enters the RSK group.

Fishtek will also retain its brand identity, workforce and culture.

Ian Strudwick, RSK board director, said: “Fishtek brings specialist fish and eel pass design skills to RSK’s water and riparian services, a highly sought-after niche specialism that RSK has previously outsourced.

“The team is incredibly talented and will no doubt be a great asset in the group.

“I look forward to working more closely with them and helping the business grow and develop under the RSK umbrella.”

Toby added: “We are delighted to be joining the RSK group.

“We see this as a great opportunity to partner with a leader in the environmental and water industry.

“This acquisition will help Fishtek accelerate its growth and will enable us to offer a wider range of services to our existing, and new, clients.”