The work will go to seven contractors. Jackson Civil Engineering, Morrison Construction Services, Volker Stevin, Team Van Oord, Birse Civils, Interserve Project Services and Westminster Dredging/ Dean and Dyball will carry out the work.

Nikki Brown, NCF2 Project Manager, said more than 70 contractors had expressed interest in the new framework, with 13 being shortlisted.

“The final seven contractors have been selected based on their ability to meet our requirements on quality and price. This will ensure that they are best placed to succeed in the challenge of delivering a diverse programme of work which includes watercourse maintenance programmes and river and coastal engineering works.

“This second generation contract, which will take effect from 1 April 2007 for four years, will support the delivery of the Environment Agency’s Engineering Procurement Strategy. The emphasis remains on value for money, programme management, health and safety and sustainable construction within a competitive environment.”