Funding road safety improvements
More than 120 road safety improvement projects have received funding from the Scottish Government, supporting efforts to help save lives on our roads.
A total of £10m has been allocated to councils from the Road Safety Improvement Fund for initiatives that address safety concerns across Scotland’s local road network. These projects include:
- Junction improvements, including upgraded signals, road studs, improved signage and shared footways and cycleways to promote safer active travel.
- Carriageway improvements, include resurfacing and alignment adjustments to enhance road conditions.
- Vehicle restraint systems, with a specific focus on protecting vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists.
- New Pedestrian crossings to improve accessibility and safety for pedestrians
- Traffic calming measures implemented in urban areas to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety.
- Speed management measures, including a 50mph pilot on key motorcycle routes in the Scottish Borders.
- Upgraded signage, such as vehicle activated signs to enhance driver awareness.
Progress is also being made on the implementation of 20mph speed limits across the local road network with seven local authorities nearing completion or having fully implemented their schemes.
Speaking ahead of the Road Safety Scotland Annual Seminar in Edinburgh this morning, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said:
“Road safety is a priority for the Scottish Government and its partners and we remain absolutely committed to working together to reach our ambitious goal of making Scotland’s roads the safest in the world by 2030.
“The Road Safety Improvement Fund and the roll out of 20 mph speed limits are great examples of that partnership working in action, as they aim to support local authorities save lives on the local road network.
“It’s encouraging to see so many councils bring forward projects that will make a real difference to road safety in their areas and I look forward to seeing them delivered. I’m also very pleased to see progress being made in implementing 20 mph limits on the local road network.
“We must never lose sight of the fact that one death on our roads is one too many and that is why we have earmarked a record £48m for road safety in the draft budget for 2025/26. I remain resolute in my determination to save lives and ensure a safer Scotland for all.”