Island Roads has agreed a long-term partnership with local company Groundsell Contracting Ltd to provide a range of horticultural, arboricultural and landscaping services.

Under the deal, Newport-based Groundsell will undertake work including grass cutting and vegetation management across the Isle of Wight’s highway network.

The initial contract is for six years after which an annual roll-on agreement may also be activated meaning the company could be partnering with Island Roads for the remainder of the Highways PFI contract.

The deal will also further strengthen the network of local companies used by Island Roads to deliver services. Last year around £5.2 million was spent with Isle of Wight companies by Island Roads which also employs around 200 Islanders.

Groundsell, a family-run firm working out of a HQ in Forest Road has previously provided tree-related services to Island Roads including assistance during storm events.

Steve Ashman, Island Roads service director, said: “We are delighted to have strengthened our relationship with Groundsell, a well-known and established local company with a great local reputation for high quality work.

“We’ve worked Groundsell over many years including in some very severe weather conditions and we have always found they go above and beyond to ensure work is delivered on time and to a very good standard.

“Using local companies and expertise is extremely important to us. Having local supply chain partners increases our business resilience, brings additional local know-how to the business, and also supports the Island’s economy.”

Mr Ashman praised the previous partnership with idverde whose employees will transfer across to Groundsell.

Paul White, Groundsell’s Contracts Manger, said: “We’ve enjoyed a very good relationship with Island Roads and are delighted to be expanding our work with them.