Underlying profits before tax edged-up 2.9% to £104.5m across the group as revenue stayed still at £1,705.2m.

But results for the year to March 31 UK revenue up 4.7% and operating profit up 9.7%.

The domestic business had a turnover of £900.3m and made an operating profit of £56.6m as total staff numbers increased to 9,374 from 8,924 last time.

Atkins is currently finalising the sale of its highways business to Skanska which will see 1,200 staff transfer over to new owners.

The company said: “We are seeing good opportunities in UK infrastructure markets as the UK Government seeks to stimulate the economy with its commitment to infrastructure spend and through rail and water regulatory spend.

“We have an ongoing focus on driving operational efficiency through cost reductions and supplementing skills with niche acquisitions where appropriate.

“We will invest in developing our people, focusing on quality, technical excellence and innovation.”

Atkins added: “North America and Middle East markets remain challenging.”