OXFORDSHIRE’S new roads maintenance contractor Skanska is carrying out a complete review of the county’s highways network.

This is part of Oxfordshire County Council’s attempt to get a better understanding of the condition the road network is in.

Information will be stored and updated periodically.

Huw Jones, county council director for environment and economy, said: “We consider that to improve the condition of local roads we need to have a better understanding of the asset.

“This will include a comprehensive knowledge of what it is, where it is and what condition it is in, all recorded on a system.

“This information would be continually updated and utilised to inform future maintenance programmes.”

Skanska took over the county council’s £28m contract in October after the previous holder – Atkins – opted for a change in direction and sold its highway services business.

It means Skanska is now responsible for routine road maintenance around Oxfordshire including safety defect repair, gully emptying, gritting and grass cutting.

The review is expected to be completed ahead of the next financial year in April.