UK ISP PlusNet has today announced the acquisition of rival MetroNet (Parbin Limited), which has over 16,000 broadband customers, for a cool £1.7m.

Lee Strafford, PlusNet’s Chief Executive, commented, “The acquisition of Parbin gives us access to a business with a strong reputation and a growing broadband customer base. We plan to broaden product choice and enhance customer support including 24/7 coverage for Metronet’s customers.”

Paresh Morjaria, Parbin’s founder and Managing Director, commented, “PlusNet has an excellent track record and its customer philosophy is in line with Metronet’s. This development will give Metronet’s customers access to PlusNet’s investment in high value and innovative broadband products.”

PlusNet’s resources will mean that Metronet customers will get access to new services such as VoIP and Wireless Broadband, as well as 24 hour telephone and online support.

It's difficult to tell from the glossy PR speak above, but it would appear as if PlusNet intends to keep MetroNet's identity and not fold it in under their own brand.