Moray Chamber of Commerce’s head voices ‘significant concerns’ over proposals to cut speed limit by 10mph

Proposals to cut the speed limit in Moray have been questioned by a leading local business figure.

To promote safety Transport Scotland is exploring the possibility of reducing the limit for cars and vans by 10mph on single carriageways while also raising it for HGVs by 10mph. With this in mind the organisation will hold two public events in Moray next week to gauge public reaction.

However Sarah Medcraf, who heads Moray Chamber of Commerce, is stating such a move would “create further challenges” to companies.

She said: “The proposed speed limit reductions for single carriageways, while aimed at enhancing safety, risk disproportionately disadvantaging rural areas like Moray.

“Many businesses in our region depend on the movement of goods and materials across Scotland’s road network, with single carriageways forming the backbone of our transport infrastructure.

“Lower speed limits will lead to an economic cost of delay. For example, longer journey times will increase costs for businesses and commuters, impact the overall efficiency of supply chains, and slower journeys could potentially lead to additional congestion and increased pollution.

“At a time when business is looking for regulation to support economic growth, this policy would create further challenges for industries already under pressure from rising costs and economic uncertainty.”

She continued: “With limited public transport options in rural areas, many workers have no viable alternative but to use private vehicles. Reducing speed limits on single carriageways could significantly increase commute times, creating further challenges for employees and businesses alike.

“We urge Transport Scotland and the Scottish Government to carefully consider the disproportionate impact these proposals could have.

“While we support the objective of reducing casualties, this must be balanced with the need to maintain economic resilience and connectivity in regions like Moray.

“We encourage all businesses and stakeholders in Moray to engage with this consultation and voice their concerns. Moray Chamber of Commerce will continue to advocate for fair and practical transport policies that support both safety and economic sustainability.”

Transport Scotland is holding what it calls a “public engagement event” on Tuesday, February 4, at Elgin Community Centre from 3pm-7pm.

That will be followed by another during the same hours on Thursday, February 6, at Longmore Community Hall in Keith.