Johannesburg — ENVIRONMENTAL solutions company Digby Wells & Associates and US-based mining consultants Behre Dolbear have reached an "in principle" agreement to join forces.

The move, according to the companies, would create an integrated service provider to the minerals industry.

Behre Dolbear provides technical and financial services to the minerals industry, while Digby Wells' focus area is the compilation and implementation of environmental management plans, environmental and social impact assessments, due diligence investigations, and social and labour plans.

The companies said the deal was subject to conditions and regulatory approvals.

Behre Dolbear chairman Barney Guarnera said: "Upon completion, the transaction will represent a significant achievement in the strategies of both companies to become fully integrated service providers to the international minerals industry.

"This new combination will not only strengthen the global positions of the two companies within the minerals industry, but benefit our clients by making available to them more options from a single service provider."

Digby Wells CEO Graham Trusler said the transaction, the costs of which had not been disclosed, would present expanded opportunities to the companies' clients.

Behre Dolbear has a presence in the US, UK, Australia, China, Hong Kong, Mexico and Canada.