Transport Scotland has confirmed plans to increase speed limits for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 7.5 tonnes on the country’s trunk roads, bringing them in line with those in England and Wales.

Under the proposals, HGVs would be permitted to travel up to 50 mph on single carriageways (up from 40 mph) and 60 mph on dual carriageways (up from 50 mph). The current 60 mph limit on motorways will remain unchanged.

The proposal comes out of the National Speed Management Review and aims to improve safety by narrowing the speed gap between HGVs and other traffic, which could reduce risky overtaking and smooth traffic flow.

The haulage community, including groups like the Road Haulage Association and Logistics UK, has broadly welcomed the change, citing benefits such as reduced travel times, improved fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and wider economic advantages.

Evidence from a previous trial on the A9 where HGVs were permitted to travel at 50 mph on single carriageway sections supported by average speed cameras showed significant reductions in deaths and serious injuries.

Transport Scotland is now progressing the necessary legislative steps to bring the new limits into force.