FEWER potholes, more work for local businesses and more satisfied communities are among the goals of a new multi-million pound highways contract for Somerset.

The county council and Skanska have agreed a deal for highways maintenance which will run from April 1 to March 31, 2024, with the option to extend for a further three years based on performance.

The exact value of the contract will depend on how much work is ordered and carried out, although it is likely to be in the region of £20 million per year.

Highways maintenance covers everything from resurfacing and filling potholes to responding to emergencies and gritting roads.

As part of the winning bid, Skanska will be working with the county council to deliver a number of benefits, ranging from visiting local schools to helping the council secure maximum funding from the Government.

Skanska is committed to reducing the number of potholes through preventative work such as drainage improvements and resurfacing.

It will also be making sure that the supply chain spend remains in local communities by supporting suitable local businesses wherever possible,

And it promises to provide customers with a more responsive service and the best possible deal for taxpayers.