Norfolk County Council has appointed Kier as its new long-term contractor responsible for the maintenance and construction of the county’s highway network.
Kier will deliver a comprehensive programme of highways maintenance and improvement, including road resurfacing and surface dressing, bridge works, drainage and the delivery of new transport infrastructure.
As part of the contract, Kier will invest significantly in its existing site in Wymondham, upgrading facilities to reduce energy consumption and support the latest in sustainable construction and materials innovation, which will benefit the wider Norfolk economy.
A key feature of Kier’s approach to the £700m contract will be its commitment to local skills and employment. At any given time, Kier will employ at least 15 apprentices, providing structured training, professional qualifications, and career pathways for young people across Norfolk.
The company will also run an annual 10-week programme for young people in care and care leavers, offering taster sessions, work experience, and employability skills, with support from supply chain partners.
Councillor Graham Plant, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Transport at Norfolk County Council, said:
“Each year we invest over £80 million to maintain and improve Norfolk’s transport networks, and I’m proud of the work we do and the results we achieve. Norfolk has topped the National Highways and Transport public satisfaction survey for two years running, and our focus on preventative treatment has been recognised nationally as an effective way to keep roads in a good condition”
“So, this is a vital and significant partnership for the County Council and, in bidding for the contract, Kier’s commitment to our shared values of quality, innovation, sustainability and delivering social value shone through. I’m looking forward to welcoming them on board and continuing to build on our strong track record in looking after and upgrading our highways.
“I am especially pleased to see that this contract will open doors for young people in Norfolk, including care leavers. This is a fantastic example of how our partnerships can make a real difference for some of our most vulnerable young people.”
James Birch, managing director for Highways at Kier Transportation, said:
“This appointment marks the beginning of a hugely important strategic relationship between Kier Transportation and Norfolk County Council. We understand the importance of providing a service that leaves a lasting legacy and is also bold and focused on helping local communities to thrive.
“We will create local job opportunities, support local SMEs and supply chains, and our service will focus on innovation and working collaboratively to provide a safe, reliable and sustainable highways network for the county.”
Norfolk’s highway network is one of the largest in the country, comprising around 6,000 miles of roads as well as extensive pedestrian and cycle paths.
Kier is due to take over responsibility for highways maintenance and construction for Norfolk County Council from 1 April 2026 for a period of up to 14 years.
(Pic: Norfolk County Council)
