Delivering safer roads in Roslin and Howgate

 

Road safety in Roslin and Howgate is improving thanks to recent upgrades funded by the Scottish Government.

Visit from Cabinet Secretary for Transport

During a visit to Midlothian today, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop MSP heard how the introduction of 20mph speed limits in Howgate and Roslin are already making roads safer for residents, commuters, and visitors.

Road Safety Improvement Fund

The improvements were delivered by Midlothian Council and fully funded by Transport Scotland through its Road Safety Improvement Fund.

£275,000 investment

A total of £275,000 has supported the rollout of 20mph speed limits across Midlothian, including the installation of permanent speed monitors to track the impact of the changes.

Positive impact in Howgate

Howgate was one of the first villages to benefit from the new 20mph limit, introduced in October 2024.

So far, over 2 million vehicle speeds have been recorded in Howgate. Since July 2024, the data shows:

• The percentage of drivers travelling between 20–25mph has increased from 6% to 29%.

• A 20% increase in drivers travelling below 30mph

Similar success in Roslin

Similar positive progress is reported in Roslin too. Since July 2024 over 700,000 vehicle speeds have been recorded which shows:

• The percentage of drivers travelling between 20-25mph has increased from 30% to 38%

• A 15% increase in drivers travelling below 30mph

Further works planned

Speeds on the approach to Roslin village have also been reduced from 40mph to 30mph, with further plans to introduce additional crossing islands along Penicuik Road to assist bus stop users.

Road safety is a priority

The Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, said: “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.

“It’s really encouraging to see the positive impact 20 mph limits are having in the villages of Roslin and Howgate. We know the difference lower speeds can make when it comes to reducing collisions and ultimately saving lives - you are seven times more likely to survive if hit by a car at 20 mph than 30 mph.

“The action taken by Midlothian Council is making it safer for pedestrians and helping to encourage active travel and I’m pleased to see our partners in local government playing their part.”

Creating safer streets

Midlothian Council Leader, Cllr Kelly Parry, said: “Making our roads safer is a top priority. With Midlothian’s population growing rapidly, these speed reductions are vital.

“They not only protect drivers but also encourage more people to walk, wheel, or cycle for shorter, everyday journeys.

“We're delighted this targeted investment is delivering real improvements and helping to create safer, more welcoming streets for everyone in Midlothian.”

In Picture

From left to right: Midlothian Council Leader, Cllr Kelly Parry; Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP; and Midlothian Provost Cllr Debbi McCall.