The project combines plans to upgrade the A8 Baillieston to Newhouse, completing the motorway between Glasgow and Edinburgh, as well as work to improve Raith Interchange and the widening of key sections of the M8, M73 and M74.

Procurement for the project will start on March 30 with the publication of the OJEU notice.

Construction is due to start next year and be completed by 2017.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “In these difficult economic times providing hundreds of jobs in the hard-pressed construction industry plays a key part in delivering our vision of a wealthier, fairer and better connected Scotland.

“Completing the M74 directly supported 900 construction jobs and we expect this project to be of a similar scale.

“With construction costs of £415 million at today’s prices the successful contractor will be required to deliver on the job training for apprentices and local employment opportunities, further boosting the nation’s economy under a community benefit clause.”

For more information on the contract click here