Scottish Government propose reducing national speed limit single carriageway roads to 50mph

Transport Scotland are currently seeking responses to a proposal that could see speed limits reduced on single carriageways to 50mph, while also upping the limits for goods vehicles to the same pace.

Called the National Speed Management Review (NSMR), it proposes to reduce the national speed limit on single carriageways to 50mph, while boosting the limit for goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes to 50mph on the same roads.

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Further to this, these lorries would also be able to reach 60mph on dual carriageways (if capable of achieving it) – with the aim of reducing the frustration caused by tailbacks.

“These options are aimed at addressing variations in vehicle speed limits to reduce driver frustration leading to reduced casualties and ultimately enhanced safety of Scotland’s road network,” the consultation document reads.  

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“Road safety in Scotland is at a critical time. National statistics indicate that collision on non-built-up roads (roads with a speed limit of 40mph or higher), account for over 40% of the total number of reported casualties. They also account for 66% of those killed and over 40% of the total number of seriously injured.”

Data released by the Scottish Government states that there were 77 fatalities and 677 serious injuries on single carriageways in the country in 2023. Preliminary data up to October 2024 suggests that this year will end 23% higher than that.

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Those wishing to respond to the document can do so at online from now until March 5, 2025. You can also contact Roadsafety@tranport.gov.scot now.