A WINSFORD-based highways contractor is creating 21 new jobs to ensure investment in the road network is delivered by a local workforce.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s highway contractor, Ringway, is helping to invest in the local economy by creating 17 permanent roadworker positions and four roadworker apprenticeships, based out of its offices in Winsford and Chester.

Those working in the new roles will carry out footway reconstruction, kerb laying, minor carriageway patching repairs and slab and drainage repairs.

The recruits will be part of a team already working to improve the road and footway network in the borough.

CWAC’s executive member for localities, clr Lynn Riley, said: “CWAC is dedicated to be reinvesting in the economy and improving our highways networks throughout the borough is a vital component to this.

“The news that Ringway are to not only increase their workforce but offer the role to local people is great news.

“The apprenticeship scheme will also give people the opportunity to learn new skills and get qualifications at the same time – bringing both a boost to the area and having a huge impact on the future careers of the apprentices.”

Four new roadworker apprentices will have the opportunity to be accepted onto Ringway’s national apprenticeship scheme – which starts in early September – and as well as attending college throughout the duration of the two-year scheme, apprentices will also be trained and developed within the workforce to achieve a diploma and level two NVQ in highways maintenance operations.

A permanent role will be offered at the end of the scheme, subject to completing the course and gaining the qualifications.

The apprentice scheme delivered by Ringway has been widely successful in other councils across the country.

Kevan Rudd, divisional manager for Ringway, said: “I am delighted we have been able to create these 21 positions to help boost local employment.

“Ringway prides itself on employing local people and I am especially pleased that we are able to not just invest in the present, but also in the future, through our apprenticeship scheme.”

For more information and apply for the positions visit ringwaypeople.co.uk.

The closing date for applications is September 6.