The project will see several existing contracts to operate Essex’s highways replaced with one single long-term partnership.

The bidders progressing to the next stage are:

Balfour Beatty Group Ltd

Jacobs Engineering UK Ltd/Ringway Infrastructure Services Ltd (Joint Venture)

Transforming Highway Services (Costain Ltd/Serco Ltd/Capita Symonds Ltd)

The announcement means that four rival bidders have failed to make the cut.

The unlucky firms are:

Amey

Atkins

MGWSP (May Gurney Ltd/WSP UK Ltd Joint Venture)

MouchelCarillion (Mouchel Ltd/Carillion Highway Maintenance Ltd Joint Venture)

The shortlisted bidders will now continue their dialogue with Essex County Council with a preferred bidder selected by September.

The selected partner will then form a strategic partnership with the County Council, bringing long-term expertise and an innovative approach to the delivery of local highways services.

County Councillor Norman Hume, Cabinet Member for Highways & Transportation said: “I am delighted with what we have seen from the shortlisted applicants so far.

“Customer focus and improving core services are two of our top priorities, and the Highways Transformation Programme will help us achieve this whilst delivering value for money for Essex residents.”