The current contracts for the north west managed by Balfour Beatty’s Scotland Transerv group and south west run by Amey will be extended from March 2011 to May 2012.

Both extensions allow Transport Scotland to start arrangements to procure the next generation of contracts due to start in June 2012.

The procurement process will start shortly for these jobs, which are being modified to promote innovation and encourage sustainable road maintenance while supporting around 1250 jobs across Scotland.

A supplier information day for this next round of term maintenance deals will be held at Glasgow’s Thistle Hotel on 12 October for interested bidders.

Bear (Scotland), the Ringway, Babtie Jacobs, Ennstone joint venture, must wait until next year to hear about the future of its north and south east area agreements.

Jim Barton, Transport Scotland’s chief road engineer and director said: “Extending these contracts builds on the benefits already delivered including  excellent value for money and efficiency savings on the previous contracts, for the public purse.

“The current contracts were developed in 2003 and much has changed since then with sustainability and climate change acting as key influencers in our road maintenance activities.

“This decision allows work to carry on as normal while we continue our efforts to ensure the new contracts reflect current best practice, offer opportunities for collaboration and deliver best value for money for the tax-payer.”