In response to what Halcrow perceived to be an opening up to international trade, we established a small permanent office in 2006 in Damascus, Syria, to offer our expertise in infrastructure development. What started as a small office of only three people grew rapidly to over 230 in just three years and this growth continues. We have people working on projects in Syria covering a wide range of disciplines and for a variety of private and public sector clients. For the £300 million Eighth Gate project Halcrow is responsible for the design and supervision of all infrastructure works. This mixed-use development covers 300,000 m2 and pays homage to the seven entry points to Damascus city. We have also completed work on Damascus International Airport, various hotels, the residential Murooj Valley development, and several junctions, roads and high ways in Damascus city.