Marlborough and Kenson are due to commence work this month on a new highways maintenance framework for the London Borough of Newham, which has committed to spending up to £150m by 2032.

The new deal will run for four years with an optional extension of up to 48 months past the original end date and will see the council halve the number of highways contractors it works with. Eight contractors were invited to bid; six submitted tenders, with Marlborough and Kenson retaining their involvement.

Marlborough has been working with the council since 2022. Managing director Matthew Revell said: ‘Our teams know the borough well, and this contract allows us to take on a wider role in maintaining and improving Newham's streets and public spaces. From day-to-day maintenance to major schemes, our focus will be on delivering high-quality, reliable services that make a real difference for residents.

‘Looking ahead, we are committed to investing in our people, working sustainably and continuing to deliver for the Council with the standards and care Newham has come to expect.'

Previously, the council had carried out highways work through a four-year £100m framework that started in 2022. FM Conway and O'Hara Brothers Surfacing were also on that agreement, but did not survive the council's consolidation.

On approving the new arrangement at a council cabinet meeting in late October, Councillor Sarah Ruiz, deputy mayor and cabinet member for children services, education, and sustainable transport, said: ‘The maintenance and design of our streets is of importance to everyone in the borough and the quality of our roads and pavements affects every resident, business and visitor.

‘We have committed to improving the environment in the borough and ensuring people have choices in how they travel. To achieve that, we have to have the necessary resources and support in place to deliver, whether it is day-to-day repairs, long-term maintenance or bigger projects to improve the design and look of our public areas.'

The new contract covers urban realm, repairs and major works, including resurfacing and street redesign. It will run from 1 February 2026 until 31 January 2030.

Full details of the contract can be found here.