The dispute is over a pay offer of 1.75% and what union Unite claims is an attempt to dismantle long established collective bargaining agreements.

Four depots in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Buckinghamshire will be involved.

Amey took over the Asset Support Contract for Area 8 in April 2014 after the Highways Agency was forced to switch to a negotiated deal because of bid price irregularities.

This process ended with Amey being chosen to take the old MAC area off Carillion’s hands.

Unite union claims that after the TUPE transfer of staff there has been a bid to undermine collective agreements with Amey putting new starters on contracts which allows Amey directors alone to determine pay year-on-year.

Unite said it is fighting for a 5% pay increase for workers to reflect recent very low settlements.

A spokesperson for Amey said: “Despite our significant efforts to resolve the current industrial dispute we are disappointed that strike action is planned.

“We have robust contingencies in place and do not anticipate any impact on our highways management and maintenance services. We will continue to work with Unite and our employees, and we are committed to reaching a fair and satisfactory outcome for all.”

The union has urged Amey to get back around the negotiating table in a bid to find a reasonable settlement that addresses members’ concerns over pay and the undermining of the bargaining group.

Richard Gates, Unite regional officer, said: “Unite members have no wish to take strike action but are being forced to do so by a company unwilling to listen, much less address their concerns.

“Seventy-four per cent of our members backed this strike on the back of a 100% turnout; our resolve is strong. More walkouts will follow unless Amey starts talking.”

The four depots involved are Breakspear at Hemel Hempstead, Whittlesford in Cambridgeshire, Sandy depot in Bedfordshire and Newport Pagnell in Buckinghamshire.

Workers are planning 24-hour strike action from 6am on 13 February, again on 16 February, then on  20 February and  23 February.