This was in line with market expectations but down a hefty 40% on the £55.6m recorded the previous year.

Turnover fell from 4% from £755.2m to £723.3m.

WSP chairman David Turner: "As we move into 2010 we believe our business is appropriately positioned for current market conditions following timely restructuring, and it remains well balanced between the public and private sectors in our different regions."

The profit figure includes absorbing £6.2m of restructuring costs, which saw staff levels drop by around 1,000 to 9,000 people.