Parent company Morgan Sindall detailed progress in a Stock Exchange announcement today to quell fears that clients were getting cold feet about transferring the deals following the threat of legal challenges over the tendering process.

The news means deals still need to be struck on 58 contracts after Lovell snapped-up 100 jobs-in-progress for £28m from Connaught’s administrators earlier this month.

The firm said: “Discussions are ongoing with a number of other clients which are yet to agree to the transfer of their contracts.”

Lovell managing director Stewart Davenport added: “We are pleased to have secured so many partnerships so quickly and are delighted with the way clients have responded.

“Our prompt action has enabled us to provide customers with essential maintenance services with minimal disruption.”