All change on Scottish maintenance contracts

Transport for Scotland has awarded the first two of its next generation highways maintenance contracts to Bear Scotland and TranServ.

Bear Scotland, the Ringway, Babtie Jacobs, Ennstone joint venture, will become responsible for overseeing 814 miles of trunk roads in the North West taking over from incumbent Balfour Beatty/Mouchel’s TranServ joint venture.

TranServ will shift to the South West region taking over management of 443 miles of roads from Amey.

The two fourth generation (4G) frameworks are estimated to be worth between £130m and £160m and will support around 1,250 jobs across Scotland over five years.

New-style trunk road maintenance frameworks will promote innovation and encourage sustainable road maintenance and will start next April.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “We are continuing our investment in the trunk roads however the tough economic climate means we have to deliver more services on tighter budgets. These contracts are designed to encourage operating companies to deliver innovation and value for the public purse.

“Both BEAR and Scotland TranServ have submitted strong bids and we are confident they can build on their previous experience to deliver a trunk road network that is safe and well-maintained.”