More than 120 road safety improvement projects across Scotland are set to receive funding from the Scottish Government, with a total of £10 million allocated from the Road Safety Improvement Fund to local councils. The initiatives aim to address safety concerns on Scotland's local road network and ultimately reduce fatalities and injuries.

The funded projects encompass a range of measures, including:

• Junction improvements: Upgrading signals, installing road studs, improving signage, and creating shared footways and cycleways to enhance safety for all road users, including those engaging in active travel.

• Carriageway improvements: Resurfacing and alignment adjustments to improve overall road conditions.

• Vehicle restraint systems: With a specific focus on protecting vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists.

• New pedestrian crossings: To enhance accessibility and safety for pedestrians.

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• Traffic calming measures: Implementation 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 increase driver awareness.

The Scottish Government also highlighted progress in the implementation of 20mph speed limits across local road networks, with seven local authorities nearing completion or having fully implemented their schemes.

Speaking at the Road Safety Scotland Annual Seminar in Edinburgh, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop emphasised the government's commitment to road safety. "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."

She highlighted the importance of the funded projects and the 20mph roll-out: "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."

Ms Hyslop concluded by reiterating the government's dedication to reducing road deaths and injuries. "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."