The shortlisted bidders for the key improvement project are I & H Brown Ltd, Interserve Construction Ltd, R J McLeod (Contractors) Ltd and Roadbridge Civil Engineering & Building Contractors.

The successful bidder will be required to construct a one kilometre section of new carriageway, to replace the existing A737 between Beith and Dalry, including new junctions.

The works will remove a double bend on the existing stretch of road and deliver safety benefits.

Transport minister Humza Yousaf said: “Work is already underway to construct a bypass around Dalry and today’s announcement marks further progress in improving the A737 for communities in North Ayrshire as well as those road users travelling further distances.”

The contract is estimated to be worth approximately £5m with the contract award expected in Spring 2018.

For further information the A737 Den Realignment project visit here.