HGVs get green light for 50 mph on A75

A NEW 50 mile per hour speed limit for lorries is coming for the A75 and A77.

The South West Scotland Transport Alliance (SWSTA) has welcomed the announcement by the Scottish Government that it is going ahead with plans to increase the speed at which heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) can travel on trunk roads nationally.

It is a move which SWSTA believes will bolster a wider programme of continuous improvements along the key routes to and from the Irish Sea ferry ports at Cairnryan.

Speaking on behalf of the Alliance, Lesley Fletcher, Stena Line’s port manager at Cairnryan, said: “We know that frustration when other road users become stuck behind lorries at 40 mph is a significant cause of dangerous overtaking along the A75 and the A77.

“We have long agreed that increasing the speed at which HGVs can travel to 50 mph could play an important part in reducing the risks along these roads.”

It is not yet known when the new speed limit will be introduced, but SWSTA are hopeful it will also increase efficiency for hauliers.

Lesley added: “There is also clear evidence that lorries use less fuel and generate fewer emissions when they travel at 50 mph, which is better for our environment.

“A change in the speed limit alone will, of course, not solve all of the issues we have with these roads.

“But, if supported by a programme of continuous improvements that we and so many others would like to see, this is another step towards making the A75 and A77 safer, greener and better for local communities and those who use them.”

The move has also been welcomed by Galloway and West MSP Finlay Carson who championed the issue at Holyrood, and has dubbed the announcement as a ‘major victory’ for road users.

He said: “This is a major victory for common sense and for everyone who uses the A75 and A77. For years, I have argued that the outdated 40 mph limit for HGVs created dangerous situations, with frustrated drivers attempting risky overtakes. Increasing the limit to 50 mph will make journeys safer, smoother, and more efficient.

“This decision shows what can be achieved when local voices are heard. It’s a step forward, but the work doesn’t stop here. I will continue to press for investment in bypasses and other safety measures to ensure our roads are safer and meet the needs of communities and businesses.”