May Gurney, the Norfolk-based construction services business, is planning to float on the alternative investment market after 80 years as a private company.

Chief executive David Sterry said that the company was pursuing a listing on AIM to generate growth organically and through acquisitions.

"Our decision to seek a listing on AIM is to enable us to vigorously pursue our strategy of focusing on long-term relationships, long-term contracts and innovative skills. We are committed to reducing customer costs and improving margins, as well as seeking growth opportunities," said Sterry.

May Gurney, which has appointed Altium Capital to advise on the flotation, is focused on maintenance and improvement within the highways, rail, utilities and general infrastructure sectors.

Sterry said that the company was in a "robust" financial position after growing profit and turnover every year for the past seven years. It has secured a 拢760m forward order book, and Sterry said that 67% of turnover for the year to March 2007 had already been secured.