From April 6th 2015, the speed limit for HGVs on dual carriageways will rise from 50mph to 60mph.

The changes are part of a government drive to modernise HGV regulations and help boost the British freight industry, according to transport minister Claire Perry, who announced the change on November 22nd.

The current speed limit, which was set in the 1980s, is being changed to bring HGVs in line with other large road vehicles.

Ms Perry said: “It is really important that speed limits for lorries reflect the needs of a modern transport network and improved vehicle technology.”

She also explained that the changes were intended to make the rules fairer and more consistent across a range of larger vehicles.

Other changes are likely to follow soon, as a recent public consultation about on-the-spot-fines for commercial drivers who do not take their required breaks has shown support for the proposal.