The funding, which is in addition to the £128 million already allocated for highways maintenance in the region, will allow councils to make improvements to important local roads, bringing benefits to local people and businesses as well as those visiting the region.
Transport Minister Paul Clark said "High quality local road networks are vital to communities; connecting people with work, shops, services, families and friends.
"This additional funding will allow local authorities to carry out improvements to important local highways bringing benefits to all who use the roads."
This funding will be used to carry out improvements such as road resurfacing, bridge maintenance and street lighting. The first round of funding will be made available from April so councils can start planning improvements immediately. The remainder will be provided from April 2010.
