Ringway will replace Amey as the highways contractor in Kent, after signing a 21-year contract worth just over £1bn.

Beginning on 1 May 2026, the highways term maintenance contract (HTMC) – valued at around £50m per year – will see Ringway undertake a range of highways works for the council, including winter gritting, pothole repairs, bridge maintenance, and 24/7 emergency response.

The new contract aims to provide:

  • Faster, more efficient repairs and maintenance by streamlining processes
  • Higher standards and accountability through clear performance targets
  • Better value for money with transparent pricing

This deal will replace the existing contract between the council and Amey. For the past 12 years, it has worked with KCC to deliver ‘innovative and award-winning' highways services.

Peter Osborne, KCC's cabinet member for highways and transport, said: ‘A great deal of work has gone into making sure this contract delivers real value for Kent's Council taxpayers. The contract is designed to be efficient, transparent, and focused on providing visible results that Kent's residents will see.

‘My thanks go to Amey and their staff for their outstanding service to Kent over the past 12 years. From maintaining our roads to delivering major infrastructure projects, their professionalism and commitment to quality have made a real difference. Their support and expertise will be invaluable in ensuring a smooth handover as their contract comes to an end.'

Mitesh Solanki, managing director of Ringway, said: ‘The Ringway team are excited and are looking forward to forging a strong collaborative relationship with the Kent highways team. Furthermore, we are looking forward to delivering a safer, reliable and resilient service for the communities that live and travel through Kent.'

Kyle Clough, highways and waste collections sector director at Amey, said: ‘As Amey's tenure as highways contractor for Kent County Council comes to a close, we reflect with pride on a 12-year partnership built on innovation, collaboration, and community support.

‘Our immediate priority is to continue delivering a high-quality service to Kent's residents through to the end of the contract. Alongside this, we are working closely with KCC to ensure a smooth transition to the new contractor, minimising disruption for road users and the wider community.'