Speed limits set to be raised in Scotland Useful Contacts

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SCOTLAND is considering raising speed limits and introducing new parking restrictions after it was granted new devolved powers from Westminster.

The Scotland Act 2016, which came into force at the end of May, gives the Scottish Parliament control over a range of laws including abortion, gambling, policing and transport policy.

Outlawing inconsiderate parking – for example on pavements – is set to be the first change after failed attempts by Holyrood in the past.

Speed limits are likely to be altered, too. Scotland has had some control over them since 2012, but the latest changes give ministers greater control.

Moves have already been made to introduce 20mph zones in parts of cities, while a 50mph limit was trialled for lorries on the A9.

MSPS also now have more power to legislate on road signs, including traffic signs and pedestrian crossings, beyond existing powers which only applied to trunk roads.

Scotland’s constitution secretary Derek Mackay said: “The Scotland Act sees the most substantial change to the powers of the Parliament since devolution.

“While the Scotland Act does not go as far as we would wish, we will always use all the powers available to us in the best interests of Scotland.”

MSPS to change rules of the road as more power is devolved