The contract covers essential services that residents rely on, including the maintenance of roads and green spaces, highway drainage, street lighting, street cleansing, bereavement services, maintenance of bus shelters, rights of way and winter gritting.

Under the new contract, the Council will take back day-to-day control of public realm services, with the provider delivering work at pre-agreed rates.

This approach will give the Council greater flexibility and ensure services are high-quality, efficient, and provide excellent value for money.

Final checks are now under way, and contracts will be signed in the coming weeks. In the meantime, services to residents will continue as normal under the current contract with Balfour Beatty Living Places.

Cllr Dan Hurcomb, Cabinet Member for Local Engagement and Community Resilience, said:

“This is a fantastic step forward and we are delighted to be progressing towards the contract signing stage with M Group.

“We are looking forward to creating a strong partnership that focusses on delivering safe, reliable, and high-quality services that make a real difference for local communities.”

Adrian Cooke, Managing Director at M Group Highways, said:

“As part of our new partnership with Herefordshire Council, we’re excited deliver the breadth of essential services with a focus on quality, efficiency and value for money, supported by our local presence and the capabilities of the wider Group.

“Our commitment to exceptional delivery will also focus on working collaboratively with the council in our shared goal to meet net-zero carbon and sustainability targets.”

After the contract has been signed plans will move forward to ensure a seamless transition.