Lancashire County Council could spend an extra £2.5m on improving traffic flow in the region over the next four years.

The authority has advertised a traffic management contract, with a value of up to £12m.   Over the last four years, £9.4m was spent on traffic movement projects.

The new contract is described as having “flexibility” and there is no guarantee of a set value of work for the successful bidders.

Traffic management involves ensuring the smooth flow of vehicles and the safety of pedestrians.   Day-to-day responsibilities include planning the labour and equipment necessary for roadworks, diversions and the operation of traffic signals.

The so-called Framework Agreement will initially cover the period between October 2018 and September 2020, with an option to extend the arrangement until September 2022.

The contract will be divided into lots, with three suppliers being sought to provide services up to the value of £5,000 and four for those with a higher cost.

Bidders will be evaluated against several criteria, including their financial status, technical capability and experience.   Applicants will also have to supply references which can demonstrate their ability to comply with industry standards.

Only once all of those stipulations have been satisfied can bidders move on to stage two of the process – which is based entirely on prices offered.