Shropshire Council Extends Kier Highways Contract to 2027

Shropshire Council has agreed a one-year extension to its highways maintenance contract with Kier, taking the current arrangement through to April 2027.

The extension supports the council’s ambition to develop a “mixed economy” delivery model, combining in-house services with external expertise to improve flexibility and local responsiveness.

Under the revised approach, a greater proportion of services will return to direct council control, alongside increased use of local contractors and stronger collaboration with town and parish councils. Kier will continue to deliver core highways maintenance activities, with a particular focus on resurfacing and surface dressing programmes aimed at preventing potholes and extending asset life.

The decision follows a renewed focus on service improvements since the May 2025 local elections, with the council prioritising more proactive and planned maintenance across its network.

David Vasmer, Cabinet Member for Highways and Environment at Shropshire Council, said: “Highways remain a key priority. We are addressing a network that has seen historic underinvestment, and by adopting new ways of working alongside increased funding, we can take a more preventative approach and reduce long-term issues.”

Andy Wilde, Service Director for Infrastructure, added that the extension provides continuity while the new delivery model is developed: “This arrangement allows the council to take greater control of day-to-day reactive services, while Kier continues to focus on areas where it can deliver the most value.”

Peter Ingram, Contract Director at Kier Infrastructure, welcomed the extension, noting it reflects a strong working relationship between the two organisations. Kier’s General Manager, Ian McLellan, also highlighted the partnership’s role in delivering improvements across the county and supporting local communities.

The council indicated that a further one-year extension to March 2028 may be considered as the mixed economy model continues to evolve.