New Traffic Restrictions in South East Scotland

New Traffic Restrictions in South East Scotland

25 July 2025 at 3:04 am (Europe/London)

Starting 1st August 2025, major changes will affect motorists in South East Scotland, thanks to a new governmental order. This legislation, the South East Scotland Trunk Roads (Temporary Prohibitions of Traffic and Overtaking and Temporary Speed Restrictions) Order 2025, aims to manage traffic as essential roadworks unfold. Here's what you need to know:

Key Points of the Order:

  1. Duration and Applicability: This order will be in effect from 1st August 2025 until 1st November 2025.

  2. Road Closures and Diversions: Specific sections of major trunk roads, including the M8, M9, M80, M90, A1, and A720, will see closures to facilitate construction and maintenance works. Traffic will be rerouted, and drivers should look out for diversion signs.

  3. No Overtaking Zones: Certain road sections will have strict no-overtaking rules. This is to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow around the work areas. Watch for the no-overtaking signs to avoid penalties.

  4. Temporary Speed Limits: Speed limits will be reduced on several road stretches to 30, 40, or 50 miles per hour. These limits will be enforced to ensure the safety of both drivers and construction workers.

  5. Convoy System: In some areas, a convoy system will be in place, where vehicles will be escorted through the roadworks at a controlled speed, not exceeding 10 mph.

  6. Exemptions: Emergency vehicles such as those used by the fire brigade, ambulance, police, or coastguard are exempt from these restrictions. Vehicles involved in the roadworks are also exempt.

Affected Roads:

  • M8, M9, M80, M90, A1, A720: Key junctions and slip roads will be affected.
  • Speed Reductions: Significant stretches of these roads will have speed reductions in place, particularly near junctions and slip roads.

What Drivers Should Do:

  • Plan Ahead: Consider alternative routes and allow extra travel time.
  • Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for traffic signs indicating changes.
  • Follow Rules: Adhere to the new speed limits and no-overtaking zones to avoid fines.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve road infrastructure in South East Scotland, ensuring safer and more efficient travel in the future. For more details on specific road closures and speed limits, local authorities and traffic management websites will provide ongoing updates. Stay safe and drive cautiously.