Aciem Group — an engineering company based in Midsomer Norton, Somerset — has opened a new office and workshop near Port Talbot.

The company specialises in mechanical, electrical and civil engineering, plus design and construction. It was the subject of a management buy-out last August, after which plans were put in place to stabilise and expand the business.

Five permanent staff have been recruited over the past 12 months to work at the new office in Baglan, with more expected to be created over the coming year.

Managing director Martin Whitfield said: “We are proud to open our new office in Wales, which represents the first step in our growth plan — and something of a new start for Aciem, following the management buy-out last year. Having focused in the first instance on stabilising the business and ensuring a strong trading position, our attention this year turns to expansion and diversification.

“While our roots will always be in Somerset, our client base in the water industry has grown, and we have some other significant opportunities on the horizon, so we are looking to develop a network of offices across the country, providing local service on a national scale. As part of this expansion, we are planning to create more than 40 new jobs this year alone.”

Michael Williams, framework manager at the new site, said: “The Baglan office will deliver projects for clients including Dwr Cymru Welsh Water, as well as opening up potential growth areas in other parts of Wales. Baglan was selected due to the excellent transportation links and local skilled labour availability.”