The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has welcomed the Scottish Government’s decision to consult on the National Speed Management Review, which includes proposals to raise the speed limit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) on single carriageway roads. Currently set at 40mph in Scotland, the proposed change would bring the limit in line with the 50mph limit already in place across England and Wales since 2015.

The RHA has long campaigned for this change, arguing it would reduce risky overtaking, improve road safety, and deliver environmental and economic benefits. A recent trial on the A9, where HGVs were permitted to travel at 50mph, demonstrated a decrease in dangerous overtaking and accidents, with evidence suggesting similar outcomes could be achieved across other Scottish single carriageways. The association also highlighted that lorries travelling at 50mph consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions, resulting in cost savings that could benefit consumers.

Martin Reid, the RHA’s Policy Director for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, praised the Scottish Government for exploring this issue. He noted that data from England and Wales shows no negative impact on safety, with a decade of evidence supporting the benefits of increased speed limits for HGVs.

IAM Roadsmart, a UK road safety organisation, also backed the proposals, citing research indicating that raising the HGV speed limit to 50mph has reduced accidents, injuries, and fatalities. They stressed that government policy should align with evidence, emphasising that safer, more efficient roads benefit everyone. Both organisations hope the consultation will lead to meaningful changes that improve road safety and support the transport sector.