East and South Ayrshire Councils to share road services
Two councils have become the first in Scotland to agree upon the shared delivery of road services.
East Ayrshire and South Ayrshire Councils hope to realise joint savings of more than £8m over the 10-year length of the agreement from 2014.
The service will be led by East Ayrshire and see about 90 South Ayrshire staff transfer over next year.
The agreement covers maintenance, design, infrastructure, traffic and transportation and road safety.
Councillor Douglas Reid, leader of East Ayrshire Council, said: "Today's agreement by both councils signals the way forward for roads services not only in Ayrshire but across Scotland.
"We know from experience that partnership working brings many benefits and we are looking forward to working even more closely with our colleagues in South Ayrshire Council to deliver a strong and effective roads service which will drive up efficiency and resilience."
Councillor Bill McIntosh, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: "We're on a journey to deliver something new that will make a positive difference for our communities.
"Together we will work to deliver the best possible service with the combined resources available, ensuring we achieve all that we want from this partnership for the residents and visitors of Ayrshire."