Responding to Transport Scotland’s decision to raise the speed limit for HGVs on trunk roads to 50mph, following its National Speed Management Review consultation, Alexandra Herdman, Senior Policy Manager at Logistics UK said.

“Increasing the speed limit for HGVs will have a material impact on the reduction of carbon emissions, lowering driver stress and frustration and smoothing the flow of goods nationwide. Far from being more dangerous, trials on the A9 resulted in a 31% reduction in the number of people being killed and seriously injured when speed limits were increased to 50mph, and Average Speed Cameras were installed.

“Consistency in speed limits across the UK road network is crucial: drivers can travel with reduced stress and anxiety while doing their jobs and supporting the critical movement of goods.”

“The decision brings Scotland in line with England and Wales, where the speed limit for HGVs on trunk roads has been 50mph for the last decade: our members, and wider industry, will be delighted by the news.”