Transport Scotland is calling for construction companies to bid for a £5m A737 road upgrade.

The A737 Den Realignment project involves upgrades to approximately 1km of the existing road between Beith and Dalry, including new junctions.

The contract notice comes just one week after a contract for a £31.2m A737 Dalry Bypass was awarded.

Transport minister Humza Yousaf said: "I welcome the publication of the contract notice for the Den, which follows on from the £31.2m contract awarded last week to construct the A737 Dalry Bypass.

"This highlights the significant progress we are making towards improving the A737 for the North Ayrshire communities.

"The investment in improving the A737 will deliver upon completion, a number of benefits for the local North Ayrshire communities as well as road users travelling longer distances."

Interested parties will be shortlisted in the summer and contract award expected in Spring 2018.