Buttress Fuller hires MBLA bosses

Ian Beaumont and Andy Avery, directors of the recently closed MBLA Architects & Urbanists, have joined Buttress Fuller Alsop Williams along with several of their staff.

Manchester-based MBLA closed in September after more than 20 years trading, reportedly due to a significant bad debt. A creditors meeting was due to take place this week.

At its peak MBLA employed more than 30 staff and boasted a highly regarded track record of projects including Sir William Siemens House, Zion Arts Centre, both in Manchester, and South Liverpool NHS Treatment Centre in Garston.

Contractual discussions between BFAW and former MBLA staff are ongoing and the precise number of people joining has not been disclosed. Beaumont and Avery have joined with immediate effect. Before the deal, BFAW employed around 35 staff at its office in Manchester's Princess Street.

Gavin Sorby, managing director of Buttress Fuller Alsop Williams, said: "I have admired MBLA's work for some time and both parties are a really good fit. Together we will have greater strength in numbers, a broader cross section of work, and an exciting blend of contemporary design and heritage."

MBLA specialised in healthcare, residential and regeneration projects. BFAW is strong in education, culture and public sector work.