Speed and weight limits for tractors and trailers on British roads will increase as of March, the government has confirmed.
From 9 March, an agricultural trailer towing a trailer will be able to travel at a higher combination weight limit of 31-tonnes, an increase from 24.39-tonnes.
Furthermore, agricultural tractors will now be able to travel at approximately 25mph, up from the current limit of 20mph.
Transport Secretary Claire Perry says the changes will allow farmers “to more appropriately size their combinations, as the current outdated weight limit incentivises them to use smaller tractors to tow larger trailers”.
The changes are likely to increase the amount of produce that some farmers can carry, “resulting in fewer journeys” and a lower risk of incidents, adds Perry.
Perry expects the new regulations to save the farming industry over £57m a year. Further speed and weight increases could be considered in the near future.
