The new framework agreements will come into effect from 1st April, 2011 and last for up to ten years.

It will cover technical and commercial services, infrastructure and non infrastructure construction, design and construction and sewerage maintenance.

The preferred framework firms will bid for all major work planned and required to upgrade and maintain the drinking water and sewerage networks throughout the North East and in Essex and Suffolk.

Dr Colin Price, Northumbrian Water’s Technical Director said: “This is great news for the companies chosen and the people who work for them and their sub contractors.

“It will be particularly welcome in these challenging economic times.”

He added: “Selecting a special group of companies to help us deliver our investment programme allows us to guarantee work and quality standards at competitive prices and means we can develop mutually beneficial relationships.”