The search has started for contractors to sign up to a highways repair and maintenance framework for nine local authorities.It is estimated that spending across the four-year Eastern Highway Framework is expected to reach £75m.Typical works will involve highway improvements and highway infrastructure works including bridges, subways and town centre enhancements.Hertfordshire Council is running the procurement process and has decided to do it through e-tendering.Interested firms have until 5 September to complete the prequalification process before an invitation to tender is released early in November.Hertfordshire Council is running the procurement process and has decided to do it through e-tendering.Firms need to register at: http://supplyhertfordshire.g2b.info/hpf/ To complete the PQQ go into the response manager area and enter the Access Code 7DAW3N2XM4.Councils signed up to the framework also include: Cambridgeshire County Council; Suffolk County Council; Norfolk County Council; Luton Borough Council; Bedford Borough Council; Central Bedfordshire Council; Essex County Council; Southend on Sea Borough Council.