Agenda Document Pack - Audit and Scrutiny Committee - 19/06/2025

North Ayrshire Council · 19 June 2025
Back to Audit and Scrutiny Committee — 19 June 2025 and its agenda

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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE
Audit and Scrutiny Committee
A Special Meeting of the Audit and Scrutiny Committee of North Ayrshire Council
will be held in the Council Chambers, Ground Floor, Cunninghame House, Irvine,
KA12 8EE on Thursday, 19 June 2025 at 14:00 to consider the undernoted
business.
Meeting Arrangements - Hybrid Meetings
This meeting will be held on a predominantly physical basis but with
provision, by prior notification, for remote attendance by Elected
Members in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government
(Scotland) Act 2003.  Where possible, the meeting will be live-streamed
and available to view at https://north-ayrshire.public-
i.tv/core/portal/home. 
1 Declarations of Interest
Members are requested to give notice of any declarations of interest in
respect of items of business on the Agenda.
2 Call-in: Implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy
Submit report by the Head of Service (Democratic) on a call-in request in
respect of the decision taken by Cabinet at its meeting on 3 June 2025 to
(a) note the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for 20mph in Urban
areas; and (b) approve the implementation of 20mph speed limits on
appropriate roads as detailed in the implementation plans attached at
Appendix 1 to the report.
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE
Webcasting
Please note: this meeting may be filmed/recorded/live-streamed to the
Council's internet site and available to view at https://north-ayrshire.public-
i.tv/core/portal/home, where it will be capable of repeated viewing.  At the
start of the meeting, the Provost/Chair will confirm if all or part of the
meeting is being filmed/recorded/live-streamed.
You should be aware that the Council is a Data Controller under the Data
Protection Act 2018.  Data collected during the webcast will be retained in
accordance with the Council’s published policy, including, but not limited
to, for the purpose of keeping historical records and making those records
available via the Council’s internet site.
Generally, the press and public will not be filmed. However, by entering the
Council Chambers and using the press or public seating area, you
acknowledge that you may be filmed and that any information pertaining to
you contained in the video and oral recording of the meeting will be used
for webcasting or training purposes and for the purpose of keeping
historical records and making those records available to the public. In
making this use of your information the Council is processing data which is
necessary for the performance of a task carried out in the public interest.
If you have any queries regarding this and, in particular, if you believe
that use and/or storage of any particular information would cause, or be
likely to cause, substantial damage or distress to any individual, please
contact dataprotectionofficer@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
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North Ayrshire Council, Cunninghame House, Irvine KA12 8EE
Audit and Scrutiny Committee Sederunt
John Bell (Chair)
Donald Reid (Vice Chair)
Eleanor Collier
Cameron Inglis
Tom Marshall
Matthew McLean
Davina McTiernan
Donald L. Reid
John Sweeney
Chair:
Apologies:
Attending:
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 
19 June 2025 
Audit and Scrutiny Committee 
Title:    Call In: Implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit
Strategy 
Purpose:  To allow the Committee to consider a call-in request in respect
of the decision taken by Cabinet at its meeting on 3 June 2025
to (a) note the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for
20mph in Urban areas; and (b) approve the implementation of
20mph speed limits on appropriate roads as detailed in the
implementation plans attached at Appendix 1 to the report. 
Recommendation:  That the Committee considers the terms of the call-in and agrees,
or otherwise, to make a recommendation to Cabinet. 
1. Executive Summary 
1.1    In terms of the Scheme of Administration (Section 5), the Audit and Scrutiny Committee
has a remit to consider call-in requests and invite at least one of the Members who has
requested the reference to call-in to attend the Committee to explain the request. 
1.2 This report sets out the background to a call-in request in respect of the decision
taken by Cabinet at its meeting on 3 June 2025 in relation to the report on
Implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy. 
2. Background 
2.1 The Cabinet, at its meeting on 3 June 2025, considered a report on the proposed
implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire.
Implementation plans were attached at Appendix 1 to the report. 
2.2 A request was received in terms of the call-in procedure set out in the Council's
Scheme of Administration and Standing Orders, that the Audit and Scrutiny
Committee examine the decision taken by the Cabinet. 
2.3 The call-in request, which was signed by Councillors Todd Ferguson, Gallacher and
Stalker is in the following terms: - 
Reason for call-in 
Agenda Item 2
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“The Scottish Government’s National 20mph Strategy is aspirational in tone but
experimental in scope. While well-intentioned, its widespread implementation lacks
sufficient evidence of efficacy, especially on roads already exhibiting average speeds
below 25mph. 
This policy, if adopted without amendment, risks diluting police and Council resources,
adversely affecting public transport efficiency, and imposing unjustifiable burdens on
the public purse—contrary to the financial prudence owed to North Ayrshire’s
taxpayers. 
The Strategy also raises legitimate legal and democratic concerns regarding
adequacy of consultation, particularly among working residents, rural communities,
and small business owners who will bear the practical consequences of slower road
speeds and delayed logistics. 
As a matter of public administration, the Council must guard against overreach in
regulatory intervention without evidence-based justification and must uphold the
principle of proportionality, particularly when imposing restrictions on public freedoms. 
Desired Outcome 
The Conservative Group respectfully calls upon Cabinet to: 
1. Suspend the blanket implementation of the 20mph speed limit across all roads
identified in Appendix 1, pending the outcome of a full review of cost-
effectiveness, enforceability, and public consultation. 
2. Commission an independent impact assessment, consistent with principles of
Best Value as defined in the Local Government in Scotland Act 2003, before any
further capital expenditure is incurred. 
3. Adopt a targeted and proportionate approach, taking into account the feedback
from the public consultation referenced above and elected members, with 20mph
zones restricted to locations supported by empirical safety data—such as near
schools, care facilities, or recorded accident blackspots.” 
2.4 A copy of the original report presented to Cabinet on 3 June 2025 is attached as
Appendix 1 to this report.  A briefing note has been provided by the Head of Service
(Neighbourhood Services) and is attached at Appendix 2. 
2.5 The call-in request is valid for consideration by the Committee.  The request was
received within the appropriate timescale, it was requested by three Elected Members
and details were provided on both the reason for the call-in and the desired outcome. 
2.6 The Elected Members who have submitted the call-in will be invited to address the
Committee to explain the respective call-in request.  The appropriate Cabinet Member
will then be invited to clarify the reasons for the decision. The relevant senior officer
will also be present to provide information on the report presented to Cabinet and on
issues raised by the call-in received. The Committee will have an opportunity to ask
questions of both parties and of those officers in attendance.
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2.7 The Committee will then debate the call-in request and decide whether or not it agrees
with the decision of the Cabinet.
2.8 The Audit and Scrutiny Committee therefore has to:-
i) decide if it agrees or not with the decision of the Cabinet; and
ii) consider what alternative action the Committee would recommend to the Cabinet
if it does not agree with the decision.
2.9 If the matter is referred to Cabinet with a recommendation, when the matter is
considered by the Cabinet, the Chairperson or another member of the Audit and
Scrutiny Committee will have the right to attend the Cabinet and speak in support of
any recommendation.
2.10 In the event that Cabinet declines to accept the recommendation from the Audit and
Scrutiny Committee, the matter will be referred to Council for determination. The
decision of the Council will be final.
3. Proposals
3.1 It is proposed that the Committee considers the call-in request.
4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty
Financial
4.1 The financial implications are outlined in the proposed implementation of the National
20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at Appendix 1.
Human Resources
4.2 The human resource implications are outlined in the proposed implementation of the
National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at
Appendix 1.
Legal
4.3 The legal implications are outlined are outlined in the proposed implementation of the
National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at
Appendix 1.
Equality/Socio-economic
4.4 The equality/social-economic implications are outlined in the proposed implementation
of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at
Appendix 1.
Climate Change and Carbon
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4.5 The climate change and carbon implications are outlined in the proposed
implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire
report attached at Appendix 1. 
Key Priorities 
4.6 The key priorities are outlined in the are outlined in the proposed implementation of
the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at
Appendix 1. 
Community Wealth Building 
4.7 Any community wealth building implications are outlined in the proposed
implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire
report attached at Appendix 1. 
Islands Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) 
4.8 Any ICIA implications are outlined in the proposed implementation of the National
20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at Appendix 1. 
United Nations Rights of the Child (UNCRC) 
4.9 Any UNCRC implications are outlined in the proposed implementation of the National
20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at Appendix 1. 
Consumer Duty 
4.10 Any consumer duty implications are outlined in the proposed implementation of the
National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire report attached at
Appendix 1. 
5. Consultation 
5.1 None concerning this report. 
Craig Hatton
Chief Executive 
For further information please contact Craig Stewart, Committee Services Officer, on 
01294 324130 or by email, craigstewart@north-ayrshire.gov.uk 
Background Papers 
N/A
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL
03 June 2025                                                                                  
Cabinet
Title: Implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit
Strategy
Purpose: To advise Cabinet on the proposed implementation of the
National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy within North Ayrshire.
Recommendation: Cabinet is asked to:
(1) Note the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for 20mph
in Urban areas.
(2) Agree the implementation of 20mph speed limits on
appropriate roads as detailed in the implementation plans at
Appendix 1.
1. Executive Summary
1.1 Scotland’s National Strategy for 20mph speed limits advocates the vision: “Slower
today for a safer tomorrow”. The ambitions intended to be realised by lowering the
speed limit from 30 mph to 20 mph on all appropriate roads are:
• A reduction in road collisions and should a collision occur, a reduction in the
severity of that collision.
• Reduce the perceptions of road danger and provide a more equitable balance
between different road users.
• Encourage a change in the way we travel for those shorter everyday journeys to
reduce our carbon footprint and promote healthier lives.
• Improve our communities, by lowering speeds in the places we live and grow.
1.2 The Scottish Government has committed to working with local authorities to reduce
the speed limit in our towns, cities and villages to 20 mph, where appropriate, by the
end of 2025. This will help make these roads safer for all road users. Evidence shows
that if a vehicle collides with a pedestrian at 30 mph, they are seven times more likely
to die than at 20 mph. It is hoped the change will also improve perceptions of road
safety, by encouraging people to walk, wheel and cycle more, thereby improving
health, road safety and promoting active travel, creating more pleasant areas in which
to live.
1.3 In Wales the default limit for all 30mph roads was reduced to 20mph. Scotland’s
National 20mph Strategy is for each Local Authority to determine which 30mph roads
within their boundary should be subject to a 20mph speed limit. This means the
decisions on what roads are suitable can be taken at a local level and allows a degree
of flexibility.
Appendix 1
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1.4 All road authorities were asked to undertake a road assessment to identify those
30mph roads on their road network which are appropriate for a speed limit of 20 mph.
Using the Transport Scotland guidance, officers carried out a review in 2023/24 to
identify the roads that would be suitable to change to 20mph within urban areas. This
included the review of over 2000 roads and resulted in the creation of overview plans
with proposals for each town, as shown in Appendix 1.
1.5 Transport Scotland intends for Local Authorities to promote and implement their own
20mph speed limits where appropriate and are providing funding for the
implementation costs. The funding is for installing 20mph limit signs.
1.6 Transport Scotland is working with local authorities to ensure the trunk road network
running through our communities is subject to the same consideration as the adjacent
local roads. Draft 20mph proposals for the Trunk Roads within North Ayrshire (A78,
A737, A738) are shown in Appendix 2. There are no proposals to reduce the speed
limit on the Trunk Road in West Kilbride/ Seamill.
1.7 Transport Scotland have proposed implementing their new speed limits on the trunk
roads around July / August 2025, subject to their operating company’s programme. If
agreed, North Ayrshire would look to work with Transport Scotland & Amey to
coordinate our implementation in affected towns.
1.8 In order for local authorities to measure the impact of the introduction of 20 mph limits,
pre implementation surveys have already been carried out, with further surveys to be
completed post implementation. These surveys will allow a report to be provided on
the outcome of the strategy and have been funded by Scottish Government
1.9 The 20mph National Strategy is separate to the recent Scottish Government
consultation reviewing National Speed limits.
2. Background
2.1 North Ayrshire Council is responsible for the maintenance of the adopted local road
network. However, the Council has no responsibility for the management of the Trunk
Road Network which falls to Transport Scotland and their operating contractor, Amey.
The Trunk Road network includes the A78, the A737 from Kilwinning to the
Renfrewshire Boundary and A738 from the Pennyburn Roundabout to the A737 Dalry
Road Kilwinning.
2.2 North Ayrshire Council’s roads are the Council’s largest community asset and play a
vital role in supporting the local and wider economy by facilitating the movement of
people, goods and services and connecting people with economic and social
opportunities.
2.3 The Scottish Government published a ‘Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030’ in
February 2021. The Framework articulates a vision for Scotland to have the best road
safety performance in the world by 2030 and an ambitious long-term goal where no
one is seriously injured or killed on Scottish roads by 2050. To achieve this goal, the
national strategy for 20 mph zones and limits in Scotland was produced. The Strategy
aims to expand 20mph speed limits across Scotland, and to ensure all appropriate
roads in built-up areas have a safer speed limit of 20mph by 2025.
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2.4 The speed of a vehicle directly influences the risk of a collision as well as the severity
of injuries sustained. Statistically, the average person, is seven times more likely to
succumb to fatal injuries if they are in a collision with a vehicle at 30 mph than they are
at 20 mph.
2.5 In 2022, serious road casualties mostly occurred on 30 mph and 60 mph roads. Just
over half (51.1%) of road traffic fatalities in cities and towns were pedestrians or pedal
cyclists. The majority (54.4%) of serious injuries were also pedestrians and pedal
cyclists, whereas just over a third (34.6%) suffered slight injuries.
2.6 In 2022, 69% of all pedestrian casualties, 54% of all pedal cyclist casualties, 33% of
all motorcyclist casualties and 30% of all car casualties occurred on roads with a
speed limit of 30 mph in Scotland. In total there was 2201 casualties on roads with a
speed limit of 30 mph. Of these there were 623 people seriously injured and 31
fatalities.
2.7 A Napier University Study assessed the effectiveness of Scottish Borders
implementation, the first Scottish Authority to roll out widespread 20mph speed limits.
The study highlighted that the rollout of 20mph speed limits across the Scottish
Borders has reduced average speeds by 3mph. The trial, which took place across 97
villages and towns in the Borders since October 2020, showed that 85% of drivers
dropped their speeds by 3mph with the largest speed reductions being observed in
locations where higher speeds had been seen in the past – with those areas seeing
an average reduction of 5.4mph. The report also concluded that the change in driver
behaviour continued well after the beginning of the trial, with average speeds still well
below previous levels eight months after the start of the trial.
2.8 Average speeds in our residential streets are generally under 25 mph, which means
that traffic speeds are relatively low at present, however, the reduction in speed limit
will assist in lowering overall vehicle speeds particularly those who currently drive at
30 mph or over within our residential estates.
2.9 Transport Scotland produced a guidance document recommending that the
implementation of the reduced speed limit is undertaken using temporary traffic
regulation orders (TTRO) in the first instance. This will allow for progress to be made
with implementation and gives the community time to experience the change. It also
allows for the lower speed limit to be monitored and evaluated for a period. During this
period, decisions can then be made as to whether the 20mph speed limit can be
refined or modified before the final TRO is made.
2.10 Following an evaluation period, Permanent Traffic Regulation Orders (TRO) will be
promoted for roads that are appropriate. Stakeholder consultation will be required as
part of this process.
2.11 Transport Scotland intends for Local Authorities to promote and implement their own
20mph speed limits where appropriate and are providing funding for the
implementation costs. The funding is for installing 20mph limit signs. The level of
anticipated funding still requires to be confirmed.
2.12 It was recognised that reduction in speed limits may adversely affect the length of
some bus journeys and result in a requirement for altered timetables thus making
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travelling by bus less appealing to the public. To ensure that there is no negative
effect on bus services, bus companies were consulted on the initial plans and changes
made to ensure that the main bus routes would continue to operate effectively.
2.13 Police Scotland will remain the enforcing body for speed limits once the Traffic
Regulation Orders are made.
2.14 By reducing speed limits to 20mph in appropriate locations, it is also intended there
will be a reduced perception of road danger, people will be encouraged to walk and
cycle, thereby improving health, and promoting active travel. In addition, the strategy
will create more pleasant streets and neighbourhoods by providing a more equitable
balance between different road users, thereby promoting inclusivity. Furthermore,
there will be a change in social and cultural attitudes towards vehicular speed and
road safety as 20mph speed limit will be the norm in urban areas.
2.15 Cars currently account for almost 40% of transport emissions. By introducing the new
limits, it is anticipated there will be greater encouragement for people to adopt active
travel alternatives which will in turn support a reduction in the number of vehicles on
our roads and the reliance of cars which will also help cut transport emissions.
2.16 Should Cabinet approve the proposal, a communication strategy will be implemented
to inform the public about the introduction of the new speed limits. Transport Scotland
have provided a media toolkit, which will be used as the basis for the communication
campaign.
3. Proposals
3.1 That Cabinet notes the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for 20mph in Urban
areas.
3.2 That Cabinet agrees to the implementation of 20mph speed limits on appropriate
roads as detailed in the implementation plans at Appendix 1.
4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty
Financial
4.1 Transport Scotland have previously provided funding for the assessment and design
stages. Significant investment is required to implement the proposed speed limits. A
further grant application will be submitted to Transport Scotland for the
implementation costs. Maintenance costs relating to the signage will require to be
accommodated in future revenue budgets.
Human Resources
4.2 Delivery of the programme will be met from existing staff resource.
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Legal 
4.3 North Ayrshire Council has a statutory obligation to manage and maintain its public
road network under the terms of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984. Traffic Regulation
Orders will require to be promoted under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. 
Equality/Socio-economic 
4.4 There are no equality implications. The implementation of 20mph speed limits within
appropriate urban roads will contribute to the Council’s socio-economic duty, as lower
speed limits in residential environments reduce accident severity. Well-managed
roads are essential for the social and economic prosperity of North Ayrshire. 
Environmental and Sustainability 
4.5 Vehicle emissions, noise and outdoor air quality varies depending on a number of
criteria, including speed and consistency of driving speed, traffic volume, and type of
vehicles as well as the location of the road. The introduction of 20mph limits in
appropriate locations will contribute to reduced carbon emissions. It is also anticipated
more people will be encouraged to adopt active travel opportunities due to feeling
safer to do so. 
Key Priorities 
4.6 Effective management of these assets contributes to a number of Council plan
objectives ensuring that North Ayrshire is well-connected with effective infrastructure
and improved community safety. 
Community Wealth Building 
4.7 There are no community wealth building implications arising from the recommendations
within this report 
5. Consultation 
5.1 Police Scotland, SPT and elected members were consulted on the proposed plans. A
report was also presented to the Policy Advisory Panel on 13 May 2025. 
RUSSELL McCUTCHEON
Executive Director (Place) 
For further information please contact Susan Macfadyen, Senior Manager,
Neighbourhood Services (Roads), on Tel: 01294 324844. 
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Background Papers
Scotland’s National Strategy for 20mph Speed Limits:
Scotland’s National Strategy for 20 mph Speed Limits - Scotlands Road Safety Framework 
Transport Scotlands 20mph Speed Limits in Scotland. Implementation Guide
20mph Speed Limits in Scotland. 
Napier University Study:
First large-scale study shows success of 20mph speed limit across Scottish Borders 
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North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
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Blackwaterfoot
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
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North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
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Brodick
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
National, National
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North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
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Kildonan
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
National, National
National, 20mph
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North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
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Kilmory, Sliddery
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
National, National
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proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
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Lamlash
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
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of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
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proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Pirnmill, Newton
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
National, National
National, 20mph
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Roads
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of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
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Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
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Sannox, Corrie
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
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NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
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Roads
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of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Dalry
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
20mph, 20mph
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
40mph, 40mph
National, National
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Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Irvine
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
10mph, 10mph
20mph, 20mph
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
40mph, 40mph
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National, National
National, 40mph
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Roads
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Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Springside
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
National, National
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Title:
Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Kilwinning
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
20mph, 20mph
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
40mph, 40mph
National, National
National, 40mph
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Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Fairlie
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 20mph
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1:12,000
Title:
Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Skelmorlie
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
National, National
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1:11,000
Title:
Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
West Kilbride
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
05 Jul 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
20mph, 20mph
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
40mph, 40mph
National, National
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U
1:12,000
Title:
Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Saltcoats
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
National, National
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U
1:16,000
Title:
Neighbourhood Services
Roads
"Reproduced from the Ordnance Survey
Mapping with the permission of the Controller
of Her Majesty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copyright.
Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown
Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil
proceedings.
North Ayrshire Council SLA Licence Number:
100023393."
Asset Management
Scale:
Drawing No:
Date:
Section:
Stevenston
North Ayrshire Council
20mph National Review
12 Jun 2024
Legend
NAC_Speed_Data_Amended
CURRENTSPEED, PROPOSEDSPEED
30mph, 30mph
30mph, 20mph
40mph, 40mph
National, National
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Audit and Scrutiny Committee 
Implementation of the National 20mph Speed Limit Strategy
Overview
A proposal for implementation of 20 mph speed limits on appropriate roads as part of Scottish
Governments National 20 mph Speed Limit Strategy was approved by Cabinet on 3 June 2025. 
The proposal had previously been presented to the Policy Advisory Panel on 13 May 2025 and
members present were broadly satisﬁed with the proposal.
Proposal
The proposal sought approval to implement 20 mph speed limits on appropriate roads in North
Ayrshire by the end of 2025 in line with the target set for implementation of the National Strategy
for safer streets. 
National 20 mph Strategy
This strategy is supported by evidence from across the UK and further aﬁeld where studies have
been carried out on the beneﬁts of speed reduction particularly in our urban areas where
people live and work.  20 mph restrictions in the City of Edinburgh were shown to reduce both
speed and road traffic collisions without additional traffic calming measures or police patrols,
similar evidence of the cost effectiveness of signing only speed reductions was found in Bristol.  
The Netherlands, Norway and Finland have found similar results with pedestrian and cyclist
deaths reduced to zero in 2019 in Norway and Finland after the introduction of 20 mph limits. 
The Stockholm declaration 2020, called to mandate a maximum road travel speed limit of 20
mph in areas where vulnerable road users and vehicles mix, this is recognised as a key element
in reducing road casualties. In London, Transport for London research has shown that the
reduction in speed limits to 20 mph introduced in 2023 has helped reduce the number of
collisions and injuries to both pedestrians and cyclists on borough roads where 20 mph zones
were introduced. An overall reduction in the number of casualties of 35% was evidenced, for
children in particular, this ﬁgure was 50%.  Closer to home, Highland Council introduced a
reduction in speed limits to 20 mph at 127 locations across its area in 2023, the council has just
agreed to make the changes permanent as data indicated that average speeds had reduced by
approximately 3 mph.  This is in line with ﬁndings elsewhere that show a reduction in overall
speeds with the implementation of 20 mph speed limits.
Research has also indicated that implementing limits on an area wide approach is more
effective  than introducing limits on speciﬁc streets, demonstrating a higher reduction in speed
and may also contribute to changing travel and driving behaviour positively in the longer term. 
Whilst average speeds in many of our residential streets is currently around 25 mph, there is a
signiﬁcant number of drivers who exceed the current posted 30 mph limits, with speeds of over
35 mph.  It is expected that a lowered speed limit of 20 mph, will signiﬁcantly reduce the
number of drivers who drive at over 30 mph in our residential streets at present.
Transport Scotland (TS) are proceeding with introduction of 20 mph speed limits on the trunk
road network, in Kilwinning, Fairlie, Largs and Skelmorlie by the end of 2025.  North Ayrshire are
in discussion with TS to co-ordinate the changes in our streets to avoid a situation where drivers
travelling at 20 mph would speed up to 30 mph on entering our residential streets.
Appendix 2
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Casualty Reduction
The Scottish Government is committed to making our streets safer by reducing speeds through
implementing 20 mph speed limits where appropriate.  Research has shown that a person is 7
times more likely to die if they are hit by a vehicle at 30 mph than they are at 20 mph.
In 2023, 65% of all pedestrian casualties, 61% of all pedal cyclist casualties, 31% of all
motorcyclist casualties and 30% of car casualties occurred on roads with a speed limit of 30
mph. In total, there were 2,794 casualties on roads with a speed limit of 30 mph or less. The
Road Safety Framework 2030 adopts the highly regarded international best practice ‘Safe
System’ approach to road safety. The safe system principles recognise that people are fragile,
and they will at times make errors which can lead to collisions; however, no one should die or be
seriously injured on the road as a result. One component of the safe system “Safe Speeds” aims
to establish appropriate speed limits according to the features of the road, the function it
serves, and the physical tolerance of those who use it. 20 mph schemes are a ﬁtting example of
the Safe System in action, they reduce speed and the risk of collisions occurring by providing
more time for a driver to react to unexpected events and if the collision does occur at 20 mph it
reduces the risk of causing death or severe injury inside and outside the vehicle.
Funding
The implementation of reduced speed limits is fully funded by Scottish Government, this
includes assessment of the road network to establish those 30 mph roads which are
appropriate for a reduced speed limit, preparation of traffic regulation orders to support the
implementation, design and installation costs for signing and/or road marking as required, and
pre and post speed surveys across the road network to assess effectiveness of the strategy.
Assessment
As part of the road assessment to identify those 30mph roads that were appropriate for a
20mph speed limit, North Ayrshire carried out a review of over 2000 roads.  Transport Scotland
provided guidance around this process which included the application of local knowledge to
make informed decisions.  The guidance includes consideration of proximity to schools, places
of worship, community facilities, playparks, health centres and the number of residential
properties fronting the road.  In line with the guidance it is considered that all residential areas
are appropriate for lowered speed limits with the exception of A and B class roads which often
provide main transport links for public transport, businesses and through traffic.  The type of
vehicle and pedestrian activity was considered for each street.   Bus routes within residential
areas were also considered as representing areas likely to have increased pedestrian activity,
particularly for young people, families, older people and those with mobility difficulties.  Areas
where both vehicular and pedestrian traffic were mainly residential, the street was considered
suitable for a reduced limit.  In streets where there were limited residential frontages, e.g.
Pennyburn Rd, Towerlands Rd the speed limit was not considered suitable for a reduction.  Busy
commuter and public transport routes were also not considered suitable for a reduction in
speed limit.  This is in line with the guidance, based on experiences in other council areas
across the UK, that A and B class routes should remain at 30 mph. This resulted in the creation
of overview plans for each town.  
This is not a blanket approach, it is targeted at our residential areas where people live, children
play, attend play parks, walk to school.  A number of 30 mph roads providing main access
to/from our towns are proposed to remain at 30 mph.  For example, Almswall Rd, Irvine Road,
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Bridgend, Whitehurst Park Rd, Kilwinning; Towerlands Road, Bank Street, Kilwinning Rd, Irvine;
Overtoun Rd, Main Rd, Kilmarnock Rd, Springside; Dalry Rd, Parkhouse Rd, Ardrossan, Dalry Rd;
Sharphill Rd, Ardrossan Rd, High Rd, Saltcoats; Glencairn St, Boglemart St, Stevenston, to
name a few, are not included in the plans for a reduction in speed limit to ensure that
businesses, commuters and public transport are not impacted negatively by the proposed
changes.
A number of advisory 20 mph limits are currently in place across North Ayrshire, within our
residential estates, these are not enforceable and the implementation of advisory limits is no
longer supported by Transport Scotland.  This proposal will introduce mandatory 20 mph speed
limits replacing the previous advisory limits.  In addition, where part time ﬂashing 20s were
located outside schools, these signs will be removed and replaced by mandatory speed limits
not only outside schools but in the area in which the school is situated.  20 mph limits outside of
schools did not consider the ‘journey to school’.  As few pupils live on streets where schools are
actually located, reducing speed limits in residential areas will enable a safer journey to and
from school for our children.
As the ﬂashing 20s outside schools no longer worked, traffic surveys completed outside
schools to assess if alternative measures were required indicated that due to the high volume of
vehicles, and pedestrians outside schools at drop off and pick up times, the vehicle speeds
were actually low despite the 20s no longer in operation.  This supports the need to reduce
speed limits for our children’s journey to and from school rather than just immediately outside
the school entrance.  Where schools are situated on main roads unsuitable for mandatory 20
mph limits, for example, Auchenharvie Academy, Garnock Academy, speed surveys have been
undertaken and traffic calming measures and crossing points introduced to ensure speed
reduction and improved safety for our children where it is not appropriate to lower the
mandatory speed limit.
There is a recognised increase in road users rallying for road space, cars, delivery drivers,
cyclists, mobility scooters, this road activity takes drivers attention away from pedestrian
movements, in addition, the increase in ‘quiet’ electric vehicles means pedestrians particularly
older people and children are less likely to hear a vehicle coming.  A reduction in speeds in
areas of pedestrian activity will help in reducing the risk of serious injury in the event of a
collision.
Consultation
Consultation was carried out with emergency services, bus companies and local elected
members to ensure that any concerns could be considered prior to preparation of ﬁnal plans. 
Bus companies highlighted concerns on speciﬁc routes that initially had been considered for a
reduction in speed limit, for example, Almswall Rd and Bridgend in Kilwinning, as it was felt that
a reduction in the speed limits would adversely affect the timetables and the service that could
be provided for the public, also that longer bus journey times would discourage the public from
using bus services.  As a result of the feedback, bus routes were re-visited and main routes
retained at 30 mph.  In the residential streets, it was not considered by either the bus
companies or the Roads review team that journey times would be impacted as it was
recognised that buses generally travel slowly within these areas due to road widths, parked cars
and numerous stops.
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Elected members raised some local concerns regarding some areas that they would like to be
considered for a reduction in speed limit. These resulted in some further streets being included
within the plans for implementation. There were no locations questioned with a view to removal
from the planned reduction in speed limits.
After a period of monitoring and evaluation, the Temporary TROs, or a revision of, may be made
Permanent. The process of making the traffic regulation orders permanent requires a 21 day
period of public consultation.
Implementation and Review Process
The use of Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TTRO) to implement 20 mph speed limits will
enable progress to be made with implementation, gives the community time to experience the
change and for the lower speed limit to be monitored and evaluated over a maximum period of
18 months. During this period, a measured and informed decision can then be made as to
whether the 20 mph speed limit can be refined or modified in terms of:
• Reducing or shifting the extents of the speed limit in length.
• Considering speed management measures to aid better compliance; or used as an
opportunity to implement local plans that are complemented by the lower speed
limit, such as active travel measures.
• Evidencing or accepting that the road is not appropriate and reverting to a speed
limit of 30 mph either partially or in full.
It is recognised that after a period of monitoring, the speed on some roads may need to be
refined or modified, either in length or with additional speed management measures, to create
suitable self-enforcing roads.
Implementing 20 mph speed limits this pragmatic and measured way allows for appropriate
roads to be monitored and evaluated on their effectiveness and it helps to identify if the road is
credible and self-enforcing which will reduce the need for police enforcement.
This also provides a period for our communities to provide feedback on the reduced limits
which will in turn assist in the decision-making process around the effectiveness of the
measures and whether modifications are necessary.
The position of Police Scotland in respect of the enforcement of 20 mph aligns with the
enforcement activity criteria for all published speed limits, contained within the Speeding
Standard Operating Procedure which states “deployment of resources must prioritise sites
which represent the greatest risk and should only be undertaken where considered necessary
and in the interests of casualty reduction.
Communication
A comprehensive and extensive communication and marketing campaign will be carried out
prior to implementation to ensure that the new speed limits are widely publicised via multiple
communications channels.
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Conclusion
A reduction in speed limits to 20 mph on appropriate roads will provide safer streets for walking
and cycling, thereby improving health, and promoting active travel. In addition, this strategy will
create more pleasant streets and neighbourhoods by providing a more equitable balance
between different road users, thereby promoting inclusivity. Furthermore, over time this will
assist in changing social and cultural attitudes towards vehicular speed and road safety as
20mph speed limit becomes the norm in urban areas.  
The speed of a vehicle directly inﬂuences the risk of a collision as well as the severity of injuries
sustained. Statistically, the average person, is seven times more likely to succumb to fatal
injuries if they are in a collision with a vehicle at 30 mph than they are at 20 mph. That is why the
Scottish Government is committed to implementing 20 mph speed limits, on those roads where
it is appropriate to do so, by the end of 2025. 
In 2022, 69% of all pedestrian casualties, 54% of all pedal cyclist casualties, 33% of all
motorcyclist casualties and 30% of all car casualties occurred on roads with a speed limit of 30
mph in Scotland. In total there was 2201 casualties on roads with a speed limit of 30 mph. Of
these there was 623 people seriously injured and 31 fatalities.
The National 20 mph Strategy is based on evidence from the UK and further aﬁeld where the
safety beneﬁts of 20 mph limits have been studied and established for some time.  The freedom
for the public to travel around our communities safely must extend to all road users, including
the most vulnerable.  The Strategy is fully funded by Transport Scotland, with no negative impact
expected on public transport, nor Council or police resource.  Reduced speed limits are not
planned on our main bus routes or our A and B class roads to ensure that neither the public
transport network or business owners and commuters are negatively impacted. The use of
Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders enables a period of impact assessment, measurement of
effectiveness, time to change established driver behaviours and allows for public feedback to
be considered prior to decisions being made on permanency of reduced limits.  A public
consultation period of 21 days must be provided prior to any permanent TRO being established.
Transport Scotland is proceeding with implementation of 20 mph speed limits by the end of
2025 on the trunk road network in Kilwinning and the North Coast.  The proposal is for North
Ayrshire to co-ordinate with TS on a town by town basis for implementation of reduced speed
limits to avoid unnecessary signage and confusion for both residents and visitors.
Thomas Reaney
Head of Neighbourhood Services
19 June 2025
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