50mph trial speed limit FAQs
Why are we implementing the trial 50mph speed limit?
Due to the volume of motorcyclist being involved in crashes on the region’s rural roads 50mph speed limits will be introduced for a trial period on the A6088, B6357, A708 and A7 north of Galashiels for 18 months from April 2025.
Will there be any enforcement? How will the new speed limit be enforced?
What will the evaluation look like and what will the decision making progress be in the longer term?
The overall aim of this trial is to reduce casualties on routes with significant motorcycle injuries and the evaluation will focus on how effective the reduced speed limit has been in improving these statistics.
The evaluation will take place in September 2026 and a consultation with the local communities and relevant stakeholders will take place alongside this to determine whether the 50mph speed limits or revert to national speed limit.
Why these particular roads?
The A7, A708, A6088, and B6357 are popular recreational routes for motorcyclists. The A708, A6088 and B6357 are quieter routes and along with the inclusion of the A7 north of Galashiels, it will allow us to consider the overall effect on a busier commuter route and regular complaint road.