The deal is set to begin next April and is initially for seven years with an option to extend year-on-year for up to a further four years.

Ringway fought off competition from Skanska and Alun Griffiths to land the contract.

Ringway will be responsible for looking after the county’s 3,300 miles of highways specifically:

• Pothole repairs
• Winter gritting and snow clearing
• Gully cleaning
• Verge and grass cutting
• Surface dressing

Cllr Vernon Smith, cabinet member for highways at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “Throughout the process Ringway impressed on all fronts and I’m confident they will do a great job keeping our roads and verges maintained.

“They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience in delivering services in our region and I look forward to working with them to continue our investment in really improving Gloucestershire’s roads.”

Mike Notman, Managing Director for Ringway added: “Developing the right solution for the people of Gloucestershire was a real team effort. We are really looking forward to working collaboratively with the council, local suppliers and the community to improve the highway network.

“We are also 100% committed to supporting the county’s wider targets for social, economic and environmental sustainability and are delighted to partner with the council to deliver these over the term of the contract.”

There is now a ten day contract ‘standstill’ period but, subject to no comments being received, the final award will be made on October 5.