The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has welcomed a Scottish government announcement that the speed limit for Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on Scotland’s trunk roads is to be increased to 50mph.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has announced that the government will be starting the parliamentary process to alter the trunk road limit following a public consultation.
The RHA, which has campaigned over many years for the current 40mph to be increased, indicated that it will work with the Scottish Government and Transport Scotland to support its implementation.
A recent trial on the A9 showed that when the speed differential between cars and trucks is reduced it also reduces the likelihood of risky overtaking.
Also, trucks use less fuel and create fewer emissions when they can drive at 50mph.
Martin Reid, the RHA’s Policy Director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland,said this change will rebalance the competitive disadvantage faced by hauliers in Scotland, compared to those in England and Wales.
He added: “We applaud the Scottish Government for this announcement. We have engaged in productive discussions with the Government, and they have listened and acted.
“This is tremendous news for Scotland’s road haulage industry. We believe it will make these roads safer, reduce emissions and help regional and national economic growth.
“When journeys take less time, they create savings which can be passed on to customers, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the Scottish economy.”
In addition, the Scottish government has dropped plans to reduce the national speed limit for cars on single carriageway roads from 60mph down to 50mph.
