Liverpool engineering consultancy saw a sharp dip in pre-tax profits last year but the firm is now getting back on track with a pre-tax figure close to £1m. Tony McDonough reports
One of Liverpool city region’s best-known engineering consultancies Curtins saw a recovery in profitability in 2025 after seeing margins dip in 2024.
Curtins, whose high-profile projects include the HEMISPHERE office and laboratory development in Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter, has posted its accounts for the 12 months to December 31, 2025, on Companies House.
They show revenues broadly similar to 2024 at £35.9m (£35.5m) but a significant improvement in pre-tax profit to just under £1m. Construction sector volatility had seen it fall from £1.7m in 2023 to just £680,579 in 2024.
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Based in Tithebarn Street in Liverpool city centre, employee-owned Curtins employed 377 people during 2025 and the accounts show its net assets increased slightly to around £12m. Founded by Bill Curtin in 1960, the firm now operates offices across the UK and Ireland.
As well as HEMISPHERE, other projects include a new-build housing project for housing association Torus in Edge Lane in Liverpool and BIOS, a major laboratory scheme for Teesside University.
In the accounts chief executive Neil Parkinson said the latest results “represent a modest recovery in profitability following the challenges experienced in 2024”.
He added: “The external environment remained challenging throughout 2025. The UK construction sector continued to experience volatility driven by economic uncertainty, inflationary pressures and supply chain disruption.
“These factors have impacted project timelines, procurement processes and client decision-making.
“Despite these conditions, the group has demonstrated resilience, maintaining a strong order book, stable revenue and improved profitability. Continued focus on operational efficiency, cost control and disciplined project delivery has supported this performance.”
Curtins’ 2024 performance was also impacted by bad debts arising from administration of a major client. Neil said its “improved outlook is underpinned by a more resilient and better balanced commercial position”.
He added: “The group’s order book continues to build gradually, providing a solid platform for delivery. However, the board recognises the continued growth in the forward pipeline is essential to support the group’s future ambitions.”