The London Highways Alliance Framework will carve Greater London into four regions to win big operational savings.

New contracts will cover both road maintenance and new build schemes, and for the first time, have the scope to cover all roads in London.

A third of London’s boroughs have already signed up to the contracts, with the hope that all will eventually get on board.

Dana Skelley, Director of Roads for Surface Transport at TfL, said: “The Capital’s road networks are the arteries and veins that keep the city moving.

“By having highway contracts which can be used by all London boroughs, we can not only deliver greater efficiencies in terms of cost and disruption, but also work together more closely to trial innovation and improve the road network for all.”

The new contracts are expected to be awarded at the end of the year. After that all work will be carried out to a common specification to allow sharing of resources and use of the same basic materials.

The winning contractors will also be required to pay the London Living Wage, take on local apprentices and help tackle any skill gaps within local workforces.

Contractors and subcontractors will also need to be active members of TfL’s Freight Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS).

This ensures all vehicles weighing more than 18 tonnes are fitted with side guards, blind-spot warning devices and appropriate rear signage to minimise the risks to vulnerable road users.