Highway networks are the backbone of our communities. From commuter routes and local high streets to cycleways and pedestrian footpaths, well-maintained highways keep people moving safely, support local economies, and protect public assets. Yet maintaining this infrastructure is complex, costly, and requires long-term thinking. This is where Term Service Contracts (TSCs) play a vital role.
For local authorities facing increasing pressure to deliver safer, more resilient highways while managing tight budgets, Term Service Contracts offer a strategic, cost-effective, and sustainable solution. Rather than reactive repairs or fragmented short-term works, TSCs provide a structured, long-term approach to highway maintenance and civil engineering.
In this guide, we explore what Term Service Contracts are, why they matter for highway maintenance, and how Henderson & Taylor delivers fully comprehensive TSC solutions that support safer roads, reduced disruption, and long-term value for local authorities. Contact Henderson & Taylor today for more information!
What are Term Service Contracts?
A Term Service Contract is a long-term agreement between a local authority and a specialist highways contractor for the delivery of ongoing maintenance, renewal, and improvement works across a defined period.
Unlike one-off or reactive contracts, TSCs are designed to cover a broad range of highway and civil engineering services under a single, integrated framework. These contracts typically span several years, allowing for forward planning, consistent delivery, and continual improvement.
A Long-Term Approach to Highway Maintenance
Term Service Contracts focus on planned maintenance rather than reactive fixes. By assessing network conditions over time, works can be prioritised strategically, reducing long-term costs and extending asset life.
Key characteristics of Term Service Contracts include:
Long-Term Duration
Term Service Contracts are typically structured over several years, allowing local authorities to plan maintenance programmes with confidence. This long-term timeframe supports strategic investment rather than short-term fixes. As a result, highway assets benefit from consistent care and extended service life.
A Single Trusted Delivery Partner
Working with one dedicated contractor ensures continuity and accountability throughout the contract term. This approach fosters strong working relationships and a deeper understanding of local networks. It also streamlines communication, decision-making, and project delivery.
Clearly Defined Performance Standards and KPIs
Term Service Contracts are underpinned by clearly defined performance standards and measurable KPIs. These benchmarks ensure works are delivered to agreed quality, safety, and efficiency levels. Regular monitoring encourages continual improvement and transparency.
Integrated Planning, Design, and Construction
By combining planning, design, and construction within a single contract, projects are delivered more efficiently. This integrated approach reduces delays, minimises errors, and improves overall coordination. It also ensures consistency from initial design through to completion.
Flexibility to Meet Changing Needs
Term Service Contracts are designed to adapt to evolving priorities and budgets. This flexibility allows authorities to respond effectively to emerging issues or changes in funding. As a result, maintenance programmes remain resilient and responsive over time.
A Shift Towards Collaborative Partnerships
The structure of a Term Service Contract encourages long-term collaboration rather than transactional procurement. Shared objectives promote proactive problem-solving and innovation. This partnership-based approach delivers better outcomes for highway networks and the communities they serve.
This structure allows local authorities to move away from short-term procurement cycles and towards a stable, collaborative partnership.
What works are typically included?
Term Service Contracts can cover a wide range of highway and civil works, including:
- Carriageway surfacing and resurfacing
- Footway and cycleway construction and renewal
- Kerbing and edge restraint installation
- Drainage design and installation
- Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS)
- Road signs and line markings
- Associated civil engineering works
By bundling these services together, TSCs streamline delivery, improve consistency, and reduce administrative burden.
Why do Term Service Contracts matter for highway maintenance?
Local authorities are under growing pressure to do more with less. Ageing infrastructure, increasing traffic volumes, climate challenges, and rising public expectations all demand a smarter, more strategic approach to highway management. Term Service Contracts provide a structured framework that enables local authorities to plan, deliver, and maintain highway networks more effectively over the long term.
Cost Efficiency and Budget Certainty
One of the most significant advantages of Term Service Contracts is improved cost control and financial certainty. Long-term planning allows local authorities to forecast budgets more accurately, while bulk procurement and operational efficiencies help reduce overall costs. By prioritising preventative maintenance and reducing reliance on emergency repairs and repeated procurement processes, authorities are able to achieve greater value for money throughout the contract term.
Improved Safety for All Road Users
Safety is at the heart of effective highway maintenance, and Term Service Contracts play a crucial role in protecting all road users. Consistent surfacing standards help reduce skidding risks, while well-maintained footways and cycleways provide safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, effective drainage systems, clear signage and line markings, and robust Vehicle Restraint Systems ensure hazards are identified early and addressed before they become critical.
Reduced Disruption to Communities
Unplanned highway works can be disruptive for residents, businesses, and commuters alike. Term Service Contracts enable better coordination of works across the highway network, reducing the frequency of emergency repairs and unnecessary repeat visits. By carefully planning works and maintaining open communication with stakeholders, disruption to traffic flow and local communities is kept to a minimum, resulting in smoother project delivery and improved public satisfaction.
Higher Quality and Consistency
Working with a single contractor over a long-term period creates a consistent approach to highway maintenance. Established standards are applied across all works, supported by a deep understanding of the local network and its specific challenges. Continuous performance monitoring and collaboration encourage ongoing improvement, leading to higher-quality outcomes and a reduction in defects.
Environmental and Sustainability Benefits
Modern Term Service Contracts increasingly support environmental and sustainability objectives. Smarter planning reduces material waste and unnecessary works, while efficient drainage systems help manage the effects of climate change. The use of durable materials and a reduction in repeat maintenance activities also contribute to lower carbon emissions, allowing sustainability considerations to be embedded throughout every stage of delivery.
Ultimately, Term Service Contracts matter because they transform highway maintenance from a reactive necessity into a strategic investment. By focusing on long-term planning, safety, quality, and sustainability, they deliver safer roads, stronger infrastructure, and better outcomes for the communities that rely on them every day.
Term Service Contracts with Henderson & Taylor
At Henderson & Taylor, Term Service Contracts are more than just agreements — they are long-term partnerships built on trust, expertise, and performance.
A Collaborative Opening
As leaders in highway maintenance and civil engineering, Henderson & Taylor works closely with local authorities to deliver fully comprehensive TSC and TMC solutions. Our approach is rooted in understanding local priorities, challenges, and long-term objectives.
Fully Integrated Services
Our Term Service Contracts cover the full lifecycle of highway maintenance, including:
- Consultation and technical advice
- Planning and design
- Manufacture and material supply
- Delivery and construction
- Ongoing support and maintenance
This integrated approach ensures efficiency, consistency, and accountability.
Our Core Highway Services
Under our Term Service Contracts, we deliver:
Machine & Hand Lay Surfacing Works
Precision surfacing solutions that provide durable, high-quality road finishes.
Footway & Cycleway Construction and Renewal
Creating safe, accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
Kerbing
Installation and maintenance of kerbs to enhance safety, drainage, and aesthetics.
Drainage Solutions
Effective drainage design and installation to prevent flooding and protect assets.
Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS)
Design, construction, and implementation of safety barriers to protect road users.
Signs & Line Markings
Clear, compliant signage and markings to guide traffic safely.
Associated Civil Engineering Works
Supporting infrastructure projects with comprehensive civil solutions.
Together, these services form a fully integrated highway maintenance solution, delivered under a single, reliable Term Service Contract. By combining technical expertise, modern equipment, and a commitment to quality, Henderson & Taylor ensures every aspect of the highway network is maintained safely, efficiently, and to the highest industry standards.
How Our Process Works
1. Contact & Consultation
We begin by understanding your requirements, network priorities, and long-term objectives. Our team works closely with local authorities to assess current conditions, constraints, and future challenges. This collaborative approach ensures every Term Service Contract is aligned with your operational and strategic goals from the outset.
2. Planning & Design
Our experienced team develops safe, functional, and visually cohesive solutions tailored to the local environment. Detailed planning allows us to programme works efficiently while ensuring compliance with all relevant standards and regulations. By taking a proactive design-led approach, we help reduce risks and deliver lasting value.
3. Construction & Delivery
Using modern plant, skilled operatives, and rigorous quality control, we deliver premium results across every project. Our teams are trained to work efficiently while minimising disruption to road users and surrounding communities. Through consistent oversight and high workmanship standards, we ensure every scheme is delivered safely, on time, and to specification.
Why choose Henderson & Taylor?
- Over 60 years of industry expertise
- Reliable delivery and transparent communication
- Fully compliant with regulatory standards
- Bespoke solutions tailored to each authority
By choosing Henderson & Taylor, local authorities gain a trusted partner committed to the long-term success of their highway networks. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!
Building Resilient Roads for the Future: Key Considerations
Before entering a Term Service Contract, it is essential to take a strategic view. The right decisions today will shape highway performance for years to come.
Contract Scope
Ensuring all required services are clearly defined within the contract scope is critical to successful delivery. A comprehensive scope reduces ambiguity and helps avoid delays, variations, or unforeseen costs during the contract term. It also ensures that all elements of highway maintenance are managed under a single, coordinated framework.
Flexibility
Term Service Contracts should be flexible enough to adapt to changing budgets, priorities, and network demands. This adaptability allows local authorities to respond effectively to emerging issues or funding adjustments. A flexible contract structure supports resilience and long-term sustainability.
Performance Measurement
Clear Key Performance Indicators and robust reporting structures help maintain accountability throughout the contract. Regular performance monitoring ensures that works are delivered to agreed quality, safety, and efficiency standards. It also provides valuable data to support continuous improvement.
Safety Standards
A strong safety culture and proven processes are essential in all highway maintenance activities. Contractors should demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting operatives, road users, and the public. High safety standards reduce risk and promote confidence in long-term delivery.
Local Knowledge
An in-depth understanding of the local highway network enables more effective planning and decision-making. Familiarity with local conditions, traffic patterns, and community needs supports smoother project delivery. This knowledge helps identify potential challenges early and mitigate disruption.
Sustainability Goals
Environmental considerations should be embedded into every stage of contract delivery. Sustainable materials, efficient working practices, and smarter planning help reduce environmental impact. Over time, this approach supports broader climate and carbon reduction objectives.
Communication
Transparent communication between all stakeholders is key to the success of a Term Service Contract. Clear channels of communication support collaboration, reduce misunderstandings, and keep projects running smoothly. Regular updates also help manage public expectations.
Proven Experience
Selecting a contractor with a strong track record provides reassurance and confidence. Proven experience demonstrates the ability to deliver complex works safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. It also supports innovation and best practice across the contract term.
Value for Money
Value for money should be measured over the full life of the contract, not solely on initial cost. Long-term efficiency, durability, and reduced maintenance needs deliver greater financial benefits. A focus on whole-life value ensures sustainable investment in highway infrastructure.
By carefully considering these factors, local authorities can ensure their Term Service Contract delivers real, lasting value.
Shaping Safer Highways Through Long-Term Partnerships
Term Service Contracts represent the future of effective highway maintenance. By combining long-term planning, expert delivery, and collaborative working, they provide a smarter way to care for vital infrastructure.
For local authorities seeking safer roads, reduced disruption, and better value for money, TSCs offer a proven solution — especially when delivered by an experienced partner such as Henderson & Taylor.
FAQs
What is a Term Service Contract (TSC)?
A long-term agreement for ongoing highway maintenance services.
How long do Term Service Contracts last?
Typically several years, depending on authority requirements.
What works are included in a TSC?
Surfacing, drainage, kerbing, footways, cycleways, VRS, signage, and civils.
Are TSCs cost-effective?
Yes, they support long-term budgeting and reduce emergency repairs.
Do TSCs improve road safety?
Absolutely — planned maintenance significantly reduces risks.
Can contracts be tailored?
Yes, Henderson & Taylor provides bespoke solutions.
How is disruption minimised?
Through careful coordination and efficient planning.
Are sustainability goals supported?
Yes, long-term planning enables environmentally responsible delivery.
Who are TSCs suitable for?
Local authorities managing public highway networks.
