20mph Speed Limits Rolled Out Across Midlothian

Midlothian Council has begun rolling out new 20mph speed limits across towns and villages in the area.

More than 800 streets

More than 800 streets are expected to have their speed limits reduced to 20mph. Some areas have already seen the changes take effect.

Residents support

This follows support from local residents during a public consultation held in November 2022, where many backed the idea of lowering speed limits in towns and villages.

Unanimous vote

Councillors voted unanimously to approve the changes at a full Council meeting on 27 June 2023. More recently, at a Cabinet meeting in May 2025, objections raised during a February 2025 consultation were reviewed and none were upheld.

Making roads safer

Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Councillor Colin Cassidy said:

“The new speed limits aim to make roads safer for everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Slower speeds are expected to encourage more walking and cycling, support local communities, and help create more welcoming and active neighbourhoods. Early data shows vehicle speeds are already coming down in areas where the 20mph limit has been introduced. The council will continue to monitor traffic to see how effective the changes are.”

Fully-funded

The project is fully funded through Transport Scotland’s Road Safety Improvement Fund.

More information

Related links


 

18 Jun 2025