The transaction, which is subject to certain contractual consents, is expected to complete before year end for a total cash consideration of $57 million (c.£42m), subject to working capital and debt adjustments.

For the year ended 31 December 2016, Heery’s gross assets were £78.2m, net assets were £21.5m and profit before tax was £2.4m. Balfour Beatty said the transaction “will release funds to be used in the normal course of business”.

Balfour Beatty acquired a 50% interest in Heery in 1986, which it increased to 100% in 1990. In certain US markets, however, acting as programme manager on a contract precludes a company from bidding as general contractor due to perceived conflicts of interest.

The sale of Heery removes this constraint from the group’s US buildings operation, while enabling it to partner with Heery on a wide range of potential projects going forward.

Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty group chief executive, said: “We continue to focus and strengthen the Group in our chosen markets. This transaction is another example of maximising shareholder value at the appropriate time and value, while improving our strategic position. We look forward to continuing our strong working relationship with CBRE.”