BEAR SCOTLAND Ltd has held on to the contract to maintain major trunk roads in Tayside and the north east of the country.

Following a six-year period since the running of Scotland’s roads was divided into four sections, Bear Scotland has been in charge of the area.

The company has now been successful in winning the contract once again after a competitive tendering processagainst Amey Infrastructure Services Ltd and Scotland TranServ.

Managing director for Bear Scotland, Bill Taylor said, “The timing of the news is welcome in the run-up to Christmas as it gives employees job security.”

The contract will start on April 1, 2007, and will be in place for five years with the option of extension to seven years. The roads covered include the A972, A9 and A92.

John Gooday, national network manager for Transport Scotland, said, “The Scottish trunk road network is valued at over £12 billion and maintaining this valuable asset to high standards is key to Scotland’s economy and connecting communities.”

Duties under the contract include regular inspections and subsequent repair of defects, grass cutting, weed control and gully cleaning, provision of a winter service including salting and snow clearing and the repair and maintenance of street lighting and traffic signals.

The company will also provide a 24-hour emergency service.