Scottish authorities advance 20mph speed limit rollouts

Local authorities in Scotland are advancing plans to implement 20mph speed limits as part of broader road safety and active travel initiatives.

In Argyll and Bute, the design stage for proposed 20mph limits in Helensburgh and Lomond is complete. Under the Scottish Government’s ‘Project 20’, most streets in Helensburgh are slated for the change, with specific exceptions on Sinclair Street, West Montrose Street, and parts of Clyde Street. Once signage is installed, the limits will be legally enforceable by Police Scotland. The project is funded by Transport Scotland and aims to create safer streets.

In South Ayrshire, the Ayrshire Roads Alliance (ARA) is progressing with a phased rollout of lower speed limits. While work continues in smaller communities like Girvan, Coylton, and Maybole, the towns of Ayr, Troon, and Prestwick have been identified for potential consideration in a future phase. The ARA is also managing trials in East Ayrshire, with extensions planned for locations such as Ochiltree in late 2026.