Regional contractor Leadbitter has acquired Kent-based Denne Construction to create a company with a £250m turnover.

Leadbitter said the acquisition of Denne, which has a turnover of £60m, would strengthen its affordable housing business, which now accounts for over half the company’s revenue.

Turnover for the combined group is expected to reach £250m for 2007 with a pre-tax profit of £8m.

Bob Rendell, Leadbitter group managing director, said: “Denne has an excellent management team that I am delighted to confirm will continue to work within the business.

“Our aim is to work jointly to further progress the exciting opportunities that Denne has in south-east England, south-east London and the Thames Gateway.

“The board are excited about our combined expertise, given a joint Denne–Leadbitter turnover in the affordable housing market sector of £130m.”