Raising speed limits for heavy goods vehicles on single carriageways

The maximum speed limit for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) over 7.5 tonnes on single carriageway roads is prescribed in Schedule 6 of the Road Traffic Act 1984. The current speed limit on single carriageways for HGVs over 7.5 tonnes is 40 miles per hour (mph). The speed limit for smaller HGVs (those between 3.5 tonnes and 7.5 tonnes) is 50 mph. The government made a commitment in ‘The logistics growth review – connecting people with goods’ document published in November 2011, to consult on this issue during 2012.

Stakeholders have said that the 40 mph speed limit causes unnecessary cost to vehicle operators, congestion, avoidable overtaking accidents and creates an uneven playing field for businesses.

The freight and logistics sector is an essential part of the economy, vital to businesses of all sizes and sectors. Raising HGV speed limits on single carriageway roads could lead to quicker journeys and lower costs for the sector, aiding economic growth as well as reducing frustration for the many drivers who find themselves stuck behind slower-moving lorries on busy roads unable to overtake.

However there are other consequences of greater speed – both in terms of the environmental impacts and the potential effects on road safety. The department wants to make sure we have carefully considered the evidence of all of the effects on the economy, environment and road safety before any decision is made.

• Heavy goods vehicle speed limit increase evaluation: final report (PPR 576)
• Heavy goods vehicles, written statement by Stephen Hammond, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport
• Plans unveiled to increase lorry speeds to boost growth press release