The Peter Berdowski-led company now owns 25.1% of Fugro and said its strategy “fits very well with the activities of Fugro”.

But Fugro does not agree.

It said in a brief announcement: “Fugro’s position is highly sensitive to conflicts of interest in particular in relation to construction and installation contractors.

“Fugro can only maintain its current market leading positions if it remains an independent service provider.”

Boskalis’