Top 20 business law firm DWF has advised Capita plc on its acquisition of IT network services provider Updata Infrastructure (UK) Limited for a cash consideration of £80million on a cash free, debt free basis.

Updata provides a range of networking and connectivity services to public sector clients and under the acquisition will become part of Capita's IT Services division. Capita and Updata have had a strategic alliance in Scotland since October 2011, working together on contracts for local authorities in West Dunbartonshire, North Ayrshire, Fife and East Lothian. The two companies have also recently started working together on a framework contract to deliver the Scottish Wide Area Network (SWAN), a single public services network for the use of all public service organisations within Scotland.

Corporate partner Paul Pignatelli led the deal at DWF and commented: "The DWF team has extensive experience of working in the public sector and we are delighted to be working with Capita again on such an important transaction. With a reputation for excellent service and innovation Updata has strong synergies with Capita, and coupled with the history between the two organisations this will ensure Capita continues to provide a high level of service to both new and existing clients."

Paul was supported on the deal by solicitor Gemma Gallagher, trainee solicitor Emma Fern and tax partner Ronnie Brown in the corporate team at DWF

Andy Parker, Capita chief executive, said: "Updata has a strong reputation across the public sector as a provider of IT networks that help schools, councils and health bodies deliver improved services. As part of Capita, Updata will strengthen our network capability and ensure we continue to meet the needs of our clients across the UK."