First Choice chief executive Cath Green said: “The money will be spent improving tenants’ homes and estates – but this is about more than just bricks and mortar.

“Just as important are our contractors’ commitments to creating new apprenticeship schemes.

“We are working with local employment and training organisations to make sure that local people get those opportunities.

“We are committed to using local contractors wherever possible so even in these difficult economic times this is a major boost to the whole borough.”

The full list of contractors on the framework is:

Emanuel Whittaker

Morrison Facilities

Jackson, Jackson & Sons

Mitie Property Services

Enterprise

New Charter Building Company

The Casey Group

Herbert T Forest

Bramall Construction

Cruden Construction

Lovell Partnerships

Kier Support Services

Bullock Construction

Vinci Construction