Tarmac has been awarded a five-year, £30m highways maintenance contract with Knowsley Council.

Valued at £6 million per annum, the contract is scheduled to commence on 1 February, 2016, and will see Tarmac deliver highways surfacing, bridge and structures maintenance, gully cleansing as well as footway and carriageway repairs. A number of apprenticeships will be created by the company over the duration of the contract as part of an ongoing commitment to creating local jobs and bringing young people into construction.

Paul Fleetham, Tarmac Contracting managing director, said: "We are delighted to have secured this contract, which is a reflection of our strong track record in delivering a high quality, innovative highways maintenance offer for local authorities across the UK. We have a highly-skilled and experienced team, which is looking forward to working with colleagues at Knowsley to deliver a first class service across the borough."

Tarmac's proven experience of working with clients on similar contracts, as well as its commitment to partnering, quality and delivery, were key factors in securing the contract. Knowsley Council will draw upon the company's resources and ability to self-deliver bituminous and concrete materials, surfacing, planing and asset management services as well as its recycling capabilities.

Cllr Mike Murphy, Knowsley's Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "Knowsley's highway is one of the council's most valuable assets, so it is vital that we have the correct provision in place to ensure this is maintained. We have recently been recognised as the best overall performer in the National Highways and Transport Survey 2015 and the new contract with Tarmac will deliver direct efficiencies for the council and give us a more flexible approach to the service, which is critical to our continued success in the current financial climate. It will also positively support the local economy through employing local apprentices and using local sub-contractors."

The contract award builds upon recent successes in the North West in Halton and Warrington. In addition, Tarmac also delivers term maintenance contracts for many local authorities across the UK.