Lorry speeds on single carriageway roads could be increased to 50MPH in a bid to boost economic growth under new Government proposals announced by Roads Minister Stephen Hammond.

The freight industry says this will help growth by improving journey time, cutting congestion and reducing costs to business and the price of goods people buy. It also claims the move will reduce the number of collisions caused by other road users overtaking slower moving lorries.

Current speed limit for HGVs over 7.5t on single carriageways is 40MPH. Under the proposals this could be increased to 45MPH or 50MPH.

“While this is likely to lead to more than £30M a year in benefits to businesses through quicker journeys and reduced congestion, I want to make sure we have carefully considered the evidence of all of the effects on the economy, environment and – of course – road safety before we make a decision. I welcome views from all,” Mr Hammond said.

Department for Transport statistics estimate that around 70% of HGVs currently travel over 40MPH and is argued that these HGVs have an unfair competitive advantage over those who stick to the speed limit.

The speed limit for smaller HGVs between 3.5t and 7.5t is 50MPH. This will remain unchanged.

The consultation runs until 1 February 2013. Find out more at http://www.dft.gov.uk/consultations/dft-2012-34/

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