Car speed limits could be cut but raised for HGVs in Scotland

Under the current rules, speed limits for cars are set at 30pmh in built-up areas, 60pmh on single carriageways and 70pmh on dual carriageways and motorways.

However, local authorities are able to set limits below these, such as 20pmh in built-up areas or 50pmh in a stretch of road with sharp bends.

The Road Haulage Association (RHA) said the Scottish government should be commended for consulting on the change to HGV speed limits.

Martin Reid, the body’s policy director for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, said: “The 50mph trial on the A9 has resulted in a reduction in risky overtaking with a resultant improvement in safety, backed up by a decade of data from roads in England and Wales.

“The extension of a 50mph limit across all Scottish single carriageway A roads should be expected to yield similar results.”

He added: “We also know that lorries use less fuel and create fewer emissions when they can drive at 50mph, and shorter journeys create savings which can be passed on to customers.”