An eBay style website will be launched to help businesses cash in on council work.

The site will be created by Surrey County Council to help companies secure building repair and construction work as subcontractors on larger projects.

Builders, electricians and others will be able to pitch for smaller jobs that major contractors need doing, with the bidder offering the lowest quote and the best quality of work winning the deal.

The initiative came as council leader David Hodge pledged to promote economic growth by ensuring 60 per cent of the council’s spending on goods and services was with local businesses.

Peter Martin, deputy leader of Surrey County Council, said: “Just like on eBay, local firms will be able to bid, with the big difference being that on our website the firm offering the best combination of price and quality will win the deal.

“Big business is always going to need help wiring a building or installing window frames and doors and there can be no better way for the council to help local firms thrive than by putting money in their bank accounts.”

Companies have to register on the site and are vetted to ensure they provide a good service and hold necessary qualifications before they can bid for work.

The site is expected to launch next February.