Nick Clegg, Liberal Democrat Sheffield Hallam MP, and Mel Ewell, Chief Executive of Amey, have met in Sheffield to discuss how the new £2bn highways contract will create up to 170 local jobs.
Amey is set to create over 30 apprentice and graduate opportunities. They will also be seeking Sheffield businesses as their preferred supply chain partners, where possible.
Nick Clegg said: “Refurbishing local roads, pavements and streetlights up to a decent standard has long been a top priority for local people. I know that Sheffielders across the City will welcome the end results of this project, which will be the largest of its kind in Sheffield’s history.
“I’m proud to be part of the Coalition Government that is providing Sheffield with the investment to make this once in a lifetime opportunity possible.
“Having spoken to Mel and the team I’m also excited by Amey’s plan to create dozens of extra jobs and opportunities for local young people. This £2 billion investment will be a real shot in the arm for our local economy.
“It is exactly these kind of infrastructure projects which are being prioritised by the Coalition Government nationally and I’m delighted that Sheffield is benefitting from this policy.”
Mel Ewell said: “We’re extremely excited about delivering a major overhaul of Sheffield City Council’s road assets, bringing them up to a standard appropriate for a modern European city. Today it has been good to meet with Nick Clegg and emphasise our commitment to Sheffield and its people.
“We’re pleased that through this contract we’ll be able to contribute to the social and economic regeneration of the city. In addition to creating 170 new jobs, we want to give young people careers and will do this through our graduate and apprenticeship schemes. Sourcing and partnering with local suppliers, where we can, is also a key priority for us. We’re looking forward to delivering great infrastructure that serves the needs of all those who use it for years to come.”
Under the Sheffield contract, Amey will take responsibility for improving and maintaining 1,900km of road, 68,000 streetlights, 500 traffic signals, 600 bridges and other structures, 2,400 retaining walls and 35,000 highway trees across the city. Amey will embark upon a five-year renovation programme to upgrade the city’s highways infrastructure; then work to maintain improvements for the duration of the 25-year contract.