Welsh Transport Minister Ken Skates confirmed the start date with the setting up of site compounds and offices to begin shortly.

Skates said: “I have made clear this scheme will deliver for the area and provide a boost for the region’s economy.

“Balfour Beatty Jones Bros will be putting this into action by offering local employment opportunities as well as placements for trainees, apprentices and graduates.

“There will also be a prime focus on local spend on materials and subcontracts where possible and meet the buyer events will be held in due course to encourage local people and companies to apply for work on the project.”

Thomas Edgcumbe, Managing Director for Balfour Beatty’s Regional North and Midlands business, said: “Having worked with Jones Bros and the Welsh Government on a number of ongoing and historic projects, we are confident that we will successfully deliver this highly anticipated scheme to schedule and leave behind a lasting legacy for the local community.”

Hefin Lloyd-Davies, contracts director at Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, said: “The progression of the contract is pleasing and we’re looking forward to providing benefits to the region including jobs, training, and skills.

“We have a proud history of not only delivering high profile projects in a joint venture with Balfour Beatty, but caring about the communities in which we operate.”