Successful tenderers announced for new road contracts

Transport Minister Keith Brown said that he expected even higher levels of service as a result of the new arrangements, which will also offer better value for the public purse than the previous contracts.

In the North East, BEAR Scotland will become responsible for overseeing 613 miles of trunk roads, while Amey takes over the South East area that covers 551 miles.

The contracts are expected to be signed in the coming weeks and take effect from August 16 2014.

Mr Brown said:

“Scotland’s trunk road network plays a vital part in our economy by allowing the transport of goods and services the length and breadth of the country.

“We are continuing our investment in the trunk roads, £711.8m in the last financial year and these contracts will encourage the operating companies to deliver the innovative services that we need to make the most of this.

“The contracts are being awarded following a rigorous assessment and a tendering process that sought best value coupled with high quality delivery.

“Both BEAR Scotland and Amey have submitted strong tenders and we are confident they can build on their previous experience to deliver the services the people and businesses of Scotland deserve.

“The operating companies will be responsible for inspecting the trunk roads in their units to ensure the routes remain safe and well maintained. In addition to major road and bridge maintenance work, they will carry out salting and snow clearing as well as gully cleaning and the repair of motorway lighting and traffic signals.

“I look forward to working with the successful tenderers and seeing them deliver top quality services for people across Scotland.”