Local MSP Brian Whittle is pushing Transport Minister Humza Yousaf to make a final decision about the future of the 50mph speed limit between Bogend Toll and the Dutch House roundabout on the A77.
After Transport Scotland spent over £10million improving the section of road, installing new overpasses and slip roads, plans were announced to return the speed limit to 70mph with the transport minister at the time, Derek Mackay MSP, saying “With the construction of two flyover junctions now completed, removing the need for right hand turns, it is appropriate to return this section of the route to the national speed limit.”
Following that announcement, Transport Scotland undertook a consultation about the change, which prompted a number of objections. Since the consultation closed in 2016, there has been no further information about when a final decision might be reached.
South Scotland MSP Brian has asked the Scottish Government several times when they expect a decision to be taken but so far they have been unwilling to provide even a rough date.
Brian Whittle MSP said:
“It’s been two years since the consultation on this change of speed limit closed and the Scottish Government still can’t tell me when a final decision will be made about the future of the 50mph limit.
Whatever your opinion of the current arrangements it’s absurd that it’s taking so long to make a decision. The longer Transport Scotland and the Scottish Government are willing to leave decision in limbo, the more it looks like they’re avoiding making a decision which is certain to be controversial whether or not the limit is changed.”