by political editor Paul Francis

The job of looking after Kent's roads will go to a new company from next year after Kent County Council announced a six-strong shortlist for one of its biggest contracts.

The six shortlisted do not include the current contractor Ringway, which had tendered for a contract which will be worth an estimated £750million over 10 years.

The companies in the race to maintain more than 5,000 miles of road are Atkins, Balfour Beatty, Carillion, Colas, Enterprise and May Gurney.

The county council will now conduct talks with each of the companies.

Cllr Nick Chard (Con), Kent County Council cabinet member for highways, said: "We are looking forward to an open dialogue with these companies.

"We are keen to hear how they could help us to make Kent's roads the best in the country, despite these difficult times with the financial challenges that we are all facing."

Highways director John Burr said: "Existing partner Ringway have not been short-listed for the next stages of procurement.

"Discussions will be held with them to ensure that we continue to work together to provide the best highway service to the residents of Kent.

"We have achieved much together over the last few years and Kent will continue to work closely with Ringway staff to ensure a smooth transition to the new contract."

Opposition Liberal Democrat spokesman Cllr Tim Prater said: "We need to see more and better maintenance on our local roads, at the lowest possible cost to Kent taxpayers.

"Working smarter, with a well negotiated contract, Kent should be able to achieve this."

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The new contract will be awarded in May 2011 and will run for up to 10 years.

Ringway was approached for a comment but had not responded. It will continue until next August.