Roadbridge’s largest UK contract was in a joint venture with Tarmac working for main contractor EKFB (Eiffage, Kier, Ferrovial Construction and BAM Nuttall) on HS2.

Suppliers had hoped the JV arrangement meant Tarmac would cover any liabilities of its failed partner.

But subcontractors have told the Enquirer that Tarmac is  instructing them to contact Roadbridge receivers Grant Thornton to pursue any outstanding invoices.

One said: “We all know what contacting the receivers means – we won’t get a penny.

“Since day one we’ve been working with Roadbridge in joint venture with Tarmac.

“Surely a joint venture means joint liability in circumstances like this?”

Another added: “Big clients like HS2 and big contractors like to go on about doing the right thing and improving the industry.

“But when something like this happens they all go quiet.

“It must be easy to trace who has paid who and who is liable for what. I just want to know where the money is and if I’ll get paid for the work I’ve done on the country’s biggest site.

“HS2 has been banging on about the use of project bank accounts to protect suppliers but they haven’t done much for me.”

A spokesperson for Tarmac said: “As a supply chain partner to HS2 through the EKFB JV we are committed to fulfilling all of our contractual, financial and ‘step in’ obligations.

“Tarmac is working to ensure continuity and delivery for EKFB through fast-tracking procurement for immediate works, appointing a reliable sub-contracting partner for longer-term works and utilising all available options to secure the necessary workforce required.”