Road Safety Plan
North Ayrshire Council · 29 September 2026
Back to Cabinet — 29 September 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL 29 September 2026 Cabinet Title: Road Safety Plan Purpose: To seek Cabinet approval of the proposed Road Safety Plan Recommendation: It is recommended that Cabinet: a) notes the approach set out in the plan; b) approves the Road Safety Plan. 1. Executive Summary 1.1 North Ayrshire Council’s Road Safety Plan outlines the strategic framework for improving road safety within North Ayrshire and will align with Transport Scotland’s National Framework. 1.2 The Road Safety Plan sets out North Ayrshire Council’s commitment to providing a safer, healthier, and sustainable road network for all road users, whilst, looking to reduce road safety inequalities across North Ayrshire communities. 1.3 The plan integrates local priorities with national objectives, emphasizing a shared responsibility among all road users and stakeholders. 1.4 The plan was developed in conjunction with the Safer North Ayrshire Partnership which includes representation from a range of partners including NHS, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire & Rescue partners. 2. Background 2.1 Scotland’s Road Safety National Framework set an ambitious target, that, by 2050 Scotland will have the world’s safest roads and aiming towards a Vision Zero goal. 2.2 Central to the plan is the adoption of the Safe System approach. The Safe System is founded on four principles: people make mistakes; humans are vulnerable to injury; death and serious injury are unacceptable; and responsibility is shared among all who design, manage, and use the road network. 2.3 It targets five key outcomes: Safe Speeds, Safe Road Use, Safe Roads and Roadsides, Safe Vehicles, and Post-Crash Response. The focus on reactive road
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safety interventions shifts to proactively addressing emerging concerns through promoting good design, speed reduction, education programs and other measures. 2.4 North Ayrshire Council officers monitor road accident data to determine current reactive interventions. In recent years there have been: - • Slight decreases in fatalities on local roads, though a slight increase on trunk roads. Local road fatalities have reduced from 4 in 2022 to 1 in 2024. • A general decline of serious injuries on local roads reducing from 48 in 2018 to 29 in 2024. • An overall downward trend on minor injuries on local roads from 120 in 2018 to 56 in 2024. 2.5 An overview of fatal road traffic collisions over the past ten years identifies “failed to look properly” and “careless and reckless driving”, as the most frequently reported contributory causes. Further detailed examination of casualty and collision data can provide insight into age profiles, travel modes, geographic patterns, and socio- economic characteristics associated with road traffic incidents. 2.6 The plan aligns with the North Ayrshire Council Plan and other local partnership strategies such as the Safer North Ayrshire Strategy and the Local Transport and Active Travel Plan. 2.7 The plan is supported by key national and local performance indicators and incremental targets that can measure the success of the strategy, including 50% reduction overall in fatalities and serious injuries and a 60% reduction in fatalities and serious injury for children under 16 by 2030. 2.8 The plan places a strong emphasis on community engagement, education, and behaviour change initiatives to promote safer road use among all user groups. Key interventions will include targeted awareness campaigns, road safety training and engagement events, age-appropriate educational programmes within schools, and the continued promotion of the ‘Fatal Five’ road safety priorities: speeding, drink and drug driving, mobile phone use while driving, failure to wear a seatbelt, and careless driving. These objectives will be supported through enhanced public engagement and communication activities, utilising both digital and traditional media channels, including social media platforms, school engagement sessions, participation in road safety events, and the effective use of Council communication and advertising resources. 2.9 The Plan promotes the implementation of 20mph speed limits and decriminalised parking enforcement measures to enhance pedestrian safety, including reducing footway obstructions and improving accessibility for all road users. 2.10 North Ayrshire Council will continue to collaborate with emergency services and national, regional, and local partners to support the delivery of the intermediate, and long-term objectives set out within the North Ayrshire Road Safety Plan and the national Road Safety Framework. 2.11 To support the development of the Road Safety Plan, a draft version was circulated to the Safer North Ayrshire Partnership (SNAP) for review and comment. Feedback received was considered and incorporated, where appropriate.
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2.12 Cabinet approval of the Road Safety Plan is sought. Subject to approval, the plan will be embedded within the day-to-day activities and responsibilities of the Road Safety Technician and the action plan implemented by all stakeholders. Progress on this will be monitored and reported through the Safer North Ayrshire Partnership (SNAP) governance arrangements. 3. Proposals 3.1 That Cabinet: a) notes the approach set out in the plan; b) approves the Road Safety Plan. 4. Implications/Socio-economic Duty Financial 4.1 None. Human Resources 4.2 Delivery of the plan will be met from existing staff resource. 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. It also has a statutory obligation under the Road Traffic Act 1988 to review road safety information and provide training. Equality/Socio-economic 4.4 In 2025, research was published by the European Transport Safety Council indicating that Socioeconomic deprivation and lower affluence levels are strongly linked to a higher incidence of severe road traffic accidents and pedestrian casualties. Whilst no specific local research has been undertaken, the findings align closely with broader public health evidence that poorer communities experience worse outcomes across a range of measures. If residents in deprived areas are more likely to walk, use public transport, live near busy roads, and be exposed to poorer road infrastructure, then road casualty rates are likely to reflect those wider social determinants rather than simply individual behaviour. Communities experiencing the greatest deprivation are often exposed to greater road risk and poorer environmental conditions. This reinforces the need for our Road Safety Plan to be targeted, place-based and explicitly linked to our ambitions around reducing inequalities, improving population health and meeting our obligations under the Fairer Scotland Duty. This research aligns with the statistics contained within the socio- economic section of the Road Safety Plan which highlights more fatalities, serious injuries and minor injuries in
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the areas in North Ayrshire within the lowest 10% of the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD). Climate Change and Carbon 4.5 None. Key Priorities 4.6 Effective management of the road network contributes to a number of Council plan objectives ensuring that North Ayrshire is well-connected with safe and effective infrastructure and that we maximise resources and provide value for money. It also contributes to Transport Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 and Scotland’s National Strategy for 20mph Speed Limits. Community Wealth Building 4.7 None. Islands Communities Impact Assessment (ICIA) 4.8 An Equality and Children’s Rights Impact Assessment screening was carried out, and Island Impact is included within this. United Nations Rights of the Child (UNCRC) 4.9 The Road Safety Plan meets the requirements of Article 6 (Life and survival) through aiming to lower the number of road accidents to keep children alive and healthy. Consumer Duty 4.10 None. 5. Consultation 5.1 Safer North Ayrshire Partnership (SNAP) were consulted on the draft Plan, and it was also presented to the Policy Advisory Panel on 8 September 2026. Transport Scotland have also been engaged on a draft copy of the Road Safety Plan. RUSSELL McCUTCHEON Executive Director (Place) For further information please contact Gary Wilson, Senior Manager, Neighbourhood Services (Roads) on Tel: 01294 324810. Background Papers Scottish Government Road Safety Framework Road Safety Framework to 2030 | Transport Scotland
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 0 North Ayrshire Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 1 Contents Foreword .................................................................................................................. 4 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 5 National and Local Road Safety Strategy .................................................................... 6 National Strategy ................................................................................................... 6 Local Strategy ........................................................................................................ 7 Safe System .............................................................................................................. 8 System Principles .................................................................................................. 8 The Safe System Outcomes ................................................................................... 9 Traditional Road Safety versus the Safe System ...................................................... 10 Reactive ........................................................................................................... 10 Proactive .......................................................................................................... 10 National Road Safety Targets ................................................................................. 11 National Key Performance Indicators ..................................................................... 12 North Ayrshire Road Safety ....................................................................................... 13 North Ayrshire Road Safety Statistics ..................................................................... 14 Fatal Statistics .................................................................................................. 16 Seriously Injured Statistics ................................................................................ 17 Slight Injury Statistics ........................................................................................ 18 Mode of Travel resulting in Fatality ...................................................................... 19 Mode of Travel resulting in serious injury............................................................. 20 Under 16s ......................................................................................................... 21 16 – 24 Age Group ............................................................................................. 22 Over 70s ........................................................................................................... 23 Socio-economic statistics ........................................................................................ 24 Our Areas of Work .................................................................................................... 26 Community-based Road Safety ............................................................................. 26 Emerging Risks ..................................................................................................... 28 E-Scooters ........................................................................................................ 28 Collaborative Working Partners ............................................................................. 29 Decriminalised Parking Enforcement and Pavement Parking ................................... 30 Implementation of 20 miles per hour speed limits .................................................. 31
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 2 External Funding Opportunities ............................................................................. 32 Soft Measures ................................................................................................... 32 Hard Measures.................................................................................................. 32 Education: School and Colleges ............................................................................ 35 Early Level (3 years to Primary 1) ........................................................................ 36 First and Second Level (Primary 2 to Primary 7) ................................................... 37 Third Fourth and Senior Phase (Senior 1 to Senior 6) ........................................... 38 Additional Support Needs .................................................................................. 38 Road Safety Action Plan ............................................................................................ 39 Monitoring & Evaluation ............................................................................................ 45 Statutory Responsibilities and Governance ............................................................... 46 Afterword ................................................................................................................. 47 Glossary .................................................................................................................. 48 Contact ................................................................................................................... 49 Table of Figures, Tables & Graphs Figure 1 - The Twelve Strategic Actions ....................................................................... 6 Figure 2 - Key Priorities within the North Ayrshire Council Plan ..................................... 7 Figure 3 - The Five Safe System Outcomes .................................................................. 9 Figure 4 – Safe System results hierarchy for Scotland ................................................. 11 Table 1 - Key Performance Indicators ......................................................................... 12 Table 2 – Road Safety Factors .................................................................................... 15 Table 3 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Fatal Collisions .................................. 16 Table 4 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Serious Collisions .............................. 17 Table 5 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Slight Collisions ................................. 18 Table 6 - The Severity of a collision on a road within the most deprived 10% SIMD area 24 Table 7 - The severity of a collision on a road within the least deprived 10% area.......... 24 Table 8 - Home postcode of road user involved in a collision who reside within the most deprived 10% ........................................................................................................... 25 Table 9 - Home postcodes of road user involved in a collision who reside within the least deprived 10% ........................................................................................................... 25 Table 10 - The number of NAC and Non-NAC residents involved in collisions within North Ayrshire .......................................................................................................... 25 Table 11 - Potential interventions to improve road safety ............................................ 28
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 3 Table 12 - A sample of previous years projects ........................................................... 32 Table 13- Early Level (3 years to Primary 1) ................................................................. 36 Table 14- First and Second Level (Primary 2 to Primary 7) ........................................... 37 Table 15 - Third Fourth and Senior Phase (Senior 1 to Senior 6) ................................... 38 Table 16 - Road Safety Action Plan............................................................................. 44 Graph 1 – Road Fatalities within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 ...................................... 16 Graph 2 – Serious Injuries within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 ..................................... 17 Graph 3 – Slight Injuries within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 ........................................ 18 Graph 4 - Number of Fatalities by Mode 2014 to 2024 ................................................. 19 Graph 5 - Number of Serious Injuries by Mode 2014 to 2024 ....................................... 20 Graph 6 - Number of Children under 16 Serious Injured .............................................. 21 Graph 7 - Numbers of Collisions within 16 to 24 year olds .......................................... 22 Graph 8 - Numbers of Collisions within road users over 70 ......................................... 23
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 4 Foreword SNAP (Safer North Ayrshire Partnership) - awaiting wording
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 5 Introduction North Ayrshire Council’s Road Safety Plan lays out the future of road safety within North Ayrshire and will align with Transport Scotland’s National Framework. Road Safety is a shared responsibility that touches all parts of every community. At a local level, we see firsthand the impact that collisions and unsafe behaviour have on our communities. These local realities sit within a broader national picture where governments across the UK are prioritising safer road use to achieve reductions in the numbers of serious and fatal collisions on our road network. Scotland’s road safety national framework set an ambitious target, by 2050 Scotland will have the world’s safest roads. To achieve the targets laid out in Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030, road safety across all local authorities, emergency services will algin to the national framework. The Road Safety Plan sets out North Ayrshire Council’s commitment to providing a safer, healthier, and sustainable road network for all road users, whilst, looking to reduce road safety inequalities across North Ayrshire communities.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 6 National and Local Road Safety Strategy National Strategy Published in 2021 by Transport Scotland, Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030, “Together, Making Scotland’s Roads Safer” provides the vision for road safety to 2030 and beyond. Moving forward, road safety across Scotland will apply the Safe System to achieve Vision Zero by 2050. The framework aims to achieve Vision Zero by setting incremental road safety targets. Vision Zero An ambitious long-term goal of the Safe System approach is that there will be no deaths or serious injuries on Scotland’s roads by 2050. These challenges, either within or out with the road safety system, have been identified to make an impact now, or in the near future, on road safety generally and, more particularly, on the new framework. These are encapsulated in twelve themes which map easily onto the Safe System and align with Scottish Government’s policies, plans and strategies The twelve Strategic actions are contained within the National Road Safety Framework and address the following areas: Figure 1 - The Twelve Strategic Actions
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 7 Local Strategy The North Ayrshire Road Safety Plan supports the National Framework at a local level and aligns with several of the key priorities set out in the North Ayrshire Council Plan. Figure 2 - Key Priorities within the North Ayrshire Council Plan The Road Safety Plan’s ambition to achieve a safer, healthier, and more sustainable road network across North Ayrshire is supported by, and aligned with, the following partner strategies: Safer North Ayrshire Strategy Local Transport and Active Travel Plan North Ayrshire Community Planning Partnership North Ayrshire Partnership Plan (Local Outcomes Improvement Plan) North Ayrshire HSCP Strategy Plan
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 8 Safe System The Safe System was developed in Sweden and is now a globally recognised framework for road safety. It starts from the principle that no one should be killed or seriously injured when travelling on a road network and has four core principles. System Principles The system principles require an understanding about the behaviour of road users, the effects of their interactions with the road network, and other road users. The safe system acknowledges that road users are fallible and vulnerable, placing a greater responsibility on the design and management of roads network. The goal is to understand that traffic collisions are not avoidable but to reduce the consequences of serious collisions on the network. To do this we must understand interactions of different road users on our network, the effects of the interactions and achieve agreed standards of system operation. The principles are: 1. People make mistakes Humans are fallible, people can make mistakes that can lead to road collisions. We need to ensure that they do not suffer tragic consequences from making minor mistakes. 2. Humans are vulnerable to injury The human body has a limited biometric tolerance to crash forces before harm occurs. This means that impacts with extremely heavy objects (such as vehicles), especially at higher speeds, will almost certainly result in serious or fatal injury. 3. Death and serious injury are unacceptable We have a moral responsibility to manage the system to eradicate the most severe side effects that can be sustained from collisions. 4. Responsibility is shared It is the shared responsibility of those who design, build, manage and use the roads and vehicles to ensure that, if collisions occur, the forces involved are within the human body’s physical tolerance levels. (Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety 2018)
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 9 The Safe System Outcomes The Safe System approach applies its core principles to establish five key outcomes: Safe Speeds, Safe Road Use, Safe Roads and Roadsides, Safe Vehicles, and Post-Crash Response. These outcomes will underpin all road safety activities moving forward, guiding delivery towards achieving intermediate outcomes, meeting interim targets by 2030, and ultimately realising the long-term Vision Zero goal by 2050. Figure 3 - The Five Safe System Outcomes
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 10 Traditional Road Safety versus the Safe System Traditional road safety focused on the behaviour of road users and trying to correct human behaviour. 90% of collisions involve human error (RoSPA Factsheet, 2018). Working with road users can reduce the number of collisions on our roads. Using the Safe System approach can lower the number of collisions and reduce the likelihood of road users being killed or seriously injured if a collision occurs. Historically, road safety approaches have been predominantly reactive in nature. Reactive Traditional Road Safety • The traditional approach Interventions focused on vulnerable road users (VRUs) • Addresses areas with collision history, not necessarily most dangerous areas • Does not address the issue of VRUs avoiding locations due to fear of traffic The Safe System is a proactive multi-disciplinary model. Proactive Focusses on Road Danger Reduction • A more recent approach • Emphasis on tackling danger at the source • Recognises that collisions are not the whole picture • More holistic – aims to reduce collisions, speeds, volume of traffic and increase the prevalence of walking, wheeling and cycling The Safe System approach accepts that responsibility is shared across all sectors, we cannot wait for the system to malfunction, we use data to reduce risk, and our actions must be systemic, as this will increase the strength within the system
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 11 National Road Safety Targets Road Safety will work towards Vision Zero using the Safe System approach by achieving our incremental goals and targets. A detailed breakdown is available within Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 and these are measured against figures published annually by Transport Scotland within the Reported Road Casualty statistics. Figure 4 – Safe System results hierarchy for Scotland
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 12 National Key Performance Indicators Each of the five pillars is supported by a set of Key Performance Indicators, which are used to assess the effectiveness of road safety measures and interventions. These indicators enable road safety teams to continuously monitor performance and make informed adjustments to interventions in order to achieve improved outcomes. In 2021, Transport Scotland released its “Annual Delivery Plan 2021 to 2022” Within this document, Transport Scotland laid out 60 deliverables, Lead Partners and the Key Performance Indicators. The table below, extracted from the Road Safety Delivery Plan, outlines the Key Performance Indicators associated with each of the five pillars and identifies the organisation responsible for leading the monitoring of each indicator. Key performance Indicators No RSF 2030 Key Performance Indicator description Organisation responsible for collection of data Assessment frequency Key Performance Indicators 01 Safe Speeds Percentage of drivers or riders driving within the speed limit Transport Scotland Quarterly Current 02 Safe Road Use Percentage of drivers not distracted by handheld mobile phone Transport Scotland Every three years Current 03 Safe Road Use Percentage of vehicle occupants wearing a seatbelt or child restraint system correctly Transport Scotland Every three years Current 04 Safe Road Use Percentage of drivers or riders driving within the legal limit for alcohol or specified drugs Transport Scotland Every six months Current 05 Safe Road Use Overall casualty rate by Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation decile (10 equally sized groups) Transport Scotland Annually Current 06 Safe Roads and Roadsides Percentage of distance travelled by vehicles that are travelling on roads with a risk rating below a relevant threshold Transport Scotland Annually Current 07 Safe Vehicles Percentage of new passenger cars, Light Goods Vehicles and Heavy Goods Vehicles with a 5-star EuroNCAP safety rating Annually Current 08 Post-Crash Response Time elapsed in minutes between the emergency call following a collision resulting in personal injury and the arrival of the emergency services Scottish Fire and Rescue Services Every six months Current Table 1 - Key Performance Indicators
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 13 North Ayrshire Road Safety Road Safety in North Ayrshire has taken a proactive approach to the development and delivery of a range of interventions and projects aimed at improving road safety and encouraging greater uptake of active travel among families. Road Safety Education has established and sustained effective working relationships with both internal and external partners, ensuring that collaborative efforts contribute to the achievement of shared road safety objectives. North Ayrshire Council regularly reviews local road collision data provided by Police Scotland, enabling analysis within a local context and facilitating timely and responsive action where required. Road safety outcomes can vary considerably across different age groups. In particular, young drivers and riders, as well as more experienced or older drivers aged over 70, are recognised as among the most vulnerable groups. Road deaths and injuries impose a terrible human cost and an economic burden on society. Transport Scotland estimates the average cost per casualty (based on 2024 data) as being: • Fatality - £2.5m • Serious Injury - £284k • Slight Injury - £22k It is essential to work collaboratively with the emergency services and the National Health Service to ensure an effective response to road traffic collisions, provide appropriate care and support to those affected, and enable thorough investigation into causes and preventative measures for the future. Road traffic injuries continue to place a significant, yet largely preventable, burden on NHS services, particularly in the context of increasing demand and constrained resources.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 14 North Ayrshire Road Safety Statistics North Ayrshire Council aligns with the Transport Scotland Framework, which sets a long-term ambition of achieving Vision Zero and eliminating serious injuries on the road network by 2050. As part of the progression towards this goal, a series of interim targets have been established for 2030, based on the 2014–2018 baseline casualty data, as outlined below: • 50% reduction in people killed • 50% reduction in people seriously injured • 60% reduction in children (aged <16) killed • 60% reduction in children (aged <16) seriously injured Due to changes in the classification of casualty severities, introduced with Police Scotland’s implementation of the Collision Reporting and Sharing (CRaSH) system from June/July 2019, progress against these targets is assessed using adjusted figures. These adjusted figures are provided by Transport Scotland through the Reported Road Casualties Scotland publications. The Covid19 Pandemic influenced the road network usage, as peoples’ modes and frequency of travel adapted to the restrictions and new ways of working. The following section shows the breakdown of Fatal and Serious injury statistics on North Ayrshire Road Network, split into key user groups: • Overall • Modes of travel • Under 16 • Age 16 – 24 • Age over 70 For each user group, a graph showing the data from the 2014/18 baseline to 2024 is included, as well as the corresponding national interim or intermediate outcome targets.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 15 Road Safety Factors (previously Contributory Factors) are provided by Police Scotland within the Stats19 dataset. This data reflets the reporting officer’s opinion at the time of reporting and may not be the result of extensive investigation. In the last 10 years, the overall top road safety factors for fatal and serious injury collisions within North Ayrshire have been: Road Safety Factors Percentage Failed to look properly (driver or rider) 16.8% Careless and Reckless driving (driver or rider) 8.7% Failed to judge other person’s path or speed (driver or rider) 7.6% Loss of control (driver or rider) 7.2% Poor turn or manoeuvre (driver or rider) 6.5% Table 2 – Road Safety Factors
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 16 Fatal Statistics Using the average baseline data for the period 2014 to 2018, together with extended data covering the years 2019 to 2024, Graph 1 illustrates the number of fatalities resulting from road traffic incidents in North Ayrshire: Graph 1 – Road Fatalities within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 Summary Since 2021, there has been a slight increase in the number of fatalities on the trunk road network, alongside a marginal decrease on the local road network. Over the past ten years, the three most frequently recorded contributory factors associated with road fatalities on both local and trunk roads are outlined below. It should be noted that the relatively low number of fatalities on North Ayrshire’s road network can result in proportionally larger percentage variations for individual factors, which may lead to an overrepresentation of a single factor within the data. Top 3 Road Safety Factors split by road type Local Road Percentage Trunk Roads Percentage Loss of control 17% 12% Careless and Reckless driving (driver or rider) 11% - Failed to look properly 9% 12% Pedestrian wearing dark clothing - 12% Table 3 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Fatal Collisions
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 17 Seriously Injured Statistics Using the average baseline data for the period 2014 to 2018, alongside extended data covering the years 2019 to 2024, Graph 2 illustrates the number of people who sustained serious injuries because of road traffic incidents in North Ayrshire: Graph 2 – Serious Injuries within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 Summary The overall trend indicates a reduction in the number of collisions resulting in serious injury on the local road network. Although an increase was observed in 2023, this subsequently declined in 2024, with both years remaining below the baseline average. In contrast, figures for the trunk road network have remained relatively stable since 2019. The combined total (illustrated in brown) broadly reflects a trend consistent with that observed on the local road network. Over the past ten years, the three most identified contributory factors associated with serious injuries on both local and trunk roads have been as follows: Top 3 Road Safety Factors split by road type Local Road Percentage Trunk Roads Percentage Failed to look properly (driver or rider) 14% 15% Careless and Reckless driving (driver or rider) 12% 11% Loss of control 8% Failed to look properly (pedestrian) 6% Table 4 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Serious Collisions
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 18 Slight Injury Statistics While the National Framework seeks to reduce fatal and serious injuries on the road network, slight injuries continue to occur. The graph below provides an overview of both the scale and trend of slight injury collisions in North Ayrshire. Graph 3 – Slight Injuries within North Ayrshire 2014 to 2024 Summary Across both the local and trunk road networks, this category has demonstrated an overall downward trend. Slight injuries remain the most prevalent type of road traffic injury, as clearly illustrated by the data presented in the graph above. While no specific targets are set for the reduction of slight injuries, North Ayrshire Council recognises the importance of continuing to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of slight injury collisions. Over the past ten years, the three most frequently identified contributory factors associated with slight injuries on both local and trunk roads have been as follows: Top 3 Road Safety Factors split by road type Local Road Percentage Trunk Roads Percentage Failed to look properly (driver or rider) 16% 20% Failed to judge other person’s path or speed (driver or rider) 9% 11% Careless and Reckless driving (driver or rider) 9% 7% Table 5 – Top 3 Road Safety Factors involved in Slight Collisions
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 19 Mode of Travel resulting in Fatality All road users are multi-modal, selecting the form of transport that best meets their needs at any given time. In doing so, individuals share a responsibility for their own safety and that of others. To support the achievement of Vision Zero, targets have been established for overall casualty reduction, alongside mode-specific measures. Graph 4 presents the average data for the period 2014–2018, together with figures from 2019 to 2024, illustrating the modes of travel involved in fatal collisions. It should be noted that these figures do not account for the relative amount of time individuals spend travelling by each mode. Graph 4 - Number of Fatalities by Mode 2014 to 2024 Summary There were no recorded fatalities involving buses, heavy goods vehicles, or horse riders during the period from 2014 to 2024. The data indicates that motorcyclists, pedestrians, and car passengers represent the groups most frequently involved in fatal collisions.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 20 Mode of Travel resulting in serious injury Collisions resulting in serious injury can have life-changing consequences for those affected. Graph 5 illustrates the number of collisions resulting in serious injury over the period from 2014 to 2024. Graph 5 - Number of Serious Injuries by Mode 2014 to 2024 Summary Analysis of the data indicates that car drivers are the road users most likely to sustain serious injuries as a result of collisions on the network. Pedestrians represent the second most affected group, followed by car passengers. No collisions resulting in serious injury involving horse riders were recorded during the period from 2014 to 2024. Both cyclists and motorcyclists have exhibited an overall downward trend in serious injuries when compared with earlier years.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 21 Under 16s To support the delivery of Vision Zero, it is essential that younger road users develop lifelong skills through a range of road safety education initiatives, projects, and promotional activities. Graph 6 presents the number of serious injuries recorded within the under-16 age group. Graph 6 - Number of Children under 16 Serious Injured Summary North Ayrshire Council data indicates that between 2014 and 2024, there were no recorded fatalities within this age group. While this is a positive outcome, it reinforces the need for Road Safety Education to continue its essential work to maintain and further reduce the already low incidence of collisions involving those under the age of 16. Children and young people remain among the most vulnerable road user groups. Road Safety will therefore continue to deliver a range of initiatives aimed at supporting parents, carers, and teachers, alongside direct engagement with this age group.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 22 16 – 24 Age Group Individuals aged 16 to 24 have the opportunity to become multi-modal road users, transitioning from independent active and sustainable travel options to driving or riding in or on their first vehicle. At this stage, young drivers are typically less experienced and may still be developing key judgement skills, while also being more likely to engage in higher-risk behaviours, such as speeding or distraction. Graph 7 illustrates the number of young people involved in fatal or serious collisions between 2014 and 2024, across all modes of travel. Graph 7 - Numbers of Collisions within 16 to 24 year olds Summary Between 2019 and 2022, there were no recorded fatalities within this age group; however, this has since returned to levels observed prior to 2019. While the number of serious injuries within this cohort has shown some year-to-year variation, the overall trend has been one of gradual decline.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 23 Over 70s As individuals age, maintaining an active lifestyle can encourage increased levels of walking, wheeling, and cycling for everyday journeys. However, in contrast to younger groups, some older drivers may experience age-related changes in factors such as vision and reaction times, which can influence their road use. Graph 8 illustrates the number of older road users involved in fatal or serious collisions between 2014 and 2024, across all modes of travel. Graph 8 - Numbers of Collisions within road users over 70 Summary The number of road users aged over 70 involved in collisions increased significantly during 2021 and 2022. The data also indicates that figures for 2024 have returned to levels broadly consistent with the 2014–2018 baseline.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 24 Socio-economic statistics The National Framework highlights a clear relationship between road casualties and socio- economic deprivation, noting that individuals living in more deprived communities are at a higher risk of injury or death on the road network. In contrast, those within higher socio- economic groups are significantly less likely to experience road traffic-related injury or fatality. Within North Ayrshire Council, there are 186 Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) data zones, of which 52 fall within the 15% most deprived areas in Scotland. The two tables below present the locations of collisions within the 10% most deprived areas (Table 6) and the 10% least deprived areas (Table 7), enabling comparison across these data zone communities. Table 6 below details the fatal, serious and slight collisions on North Ayrshire roads occurring in areas considered to be in the most deprived 10% SIMD zones. 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total Killed 0 0 0 1 1 2 Seriously injured 3 2 3 11 7 26 Slight 4 8 8 15 11 46 Total 7 10 11 27 19 74 Table 6 - The Severity of a collision on a road within the most deprived 10% SIMD area Table 7 below details the outcome severity of a collision which has occurred on a road within the least deprived 10% area, over the same time period. 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total Killed 0 0 0 0 0 0 Seriously injured 2 1 0 0 0 3 Slight 2 0 3 3 2 10 Total 4 1 3 3 2 13 Table 7 - The severity of a collision on a road within the least deprived 10% area A comparison of the two datasets indicates a notable disparity in the number of collisions occurring on roads within the most deprived 10% of areas.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 25 Tables 8 and 9 provide further context by presenting the home postcodes of road users involved in collisions. Table 8 outlines the number of individuals residing within areas classified among the 10% most deprived, while Table 9 presents corresponding data for those residing within the 10% least deprived areas. 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total Killed 0 0 0 1 1 2 Seriously injured 6 8 6 6 2 28 Slight 7 15 9 10 2 43 Total 13 23 15 17 5 73 Table 8 - Home postcode of road user involved in a collision who reside within the most deprived 10% 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total Killed 0 0 0 0 0 0 Seriously injured 2 1 0 0 0 3 Slight 4 1 3 3 2 13 Total 6 2 3 3 2 16 Table 9 - Home postcodes of road user involved in a collision who reside within the least deprived 10% A comparison of the data presented across the four tables indicates clear differences between those living and travelling within the respective data zones. Individuals residing in areas classified among the 10% most deprived are more likely to experience, or be involved in, road traffic collisions across all severity categories. Transport Scotland data provides additional insight into whether road users involved in fatal or serious collisions within North Ayrshire are residents of the area or of other local authority regions. 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Killed (total) 1 3 5 4 3 NAC resident 1 3 3 3 2 Non-NAC resident 0 0 2 1 1 Seriously Injured (total) 40 36 44 50 41 NAC resident 34 29 32 32 27 Non-NAC resident 6 7 12 18 14 Table 10 - The number of NAC and Non-NAC residents involved in collisions within North Ayrshire Data covering the period from 2020 to 2024 relates to all roads within North Ayrshire. Analysis of fatal collision data indicates that education, engineering, and enforcement interventions should place a greater focus on residents of North Ayrshire. Continued collaborative working with neighbouring local authorities will further support the achievement of shared road safety objectives.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 26 Our Areas of Work Community-based Road Safety We are all road users and, throughout our lives, will utilise different modes of transport for a variety of journeys, ranging from daily commuting to visiting family and friends or travelling for work. In doing so, the choices we make can impact both our own safety and that of others. As such, all individuals share a responsibility for their actions and behaviour while using the road network. Enhancing community connectivity can help build the confidence of residents to undertake active and sustainable travel for everyday journeys. Initiatives such as the installation of improved crossing facilities have already contributed to safer and more accessible journeys for communities across North Ayrshire. In 2022, the Department for Transport introduced updates to the Highway Code. These changes, comprising eight new or revised rules, are intended to enhance road safety, particularly for more vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. More information on the changes can be found at: www.gov.uk A key element of these changes is the introduction of the Hierarchy of Road Users. This framework recognises the varying levels of vulnerability among road users and is designed to promote safer use of the road network for all. While all road users share responsibility for safe travel, those operating larger vehicles, such as heavy goods vehicles, are considered to carry a greater responsibility due to their increased potential to cause harm, particularly to more vulnerable users such as pedestrians and cyclists. In line with the National Framework, North Ayrshire Council’s Road Safety team will continue to work collaboratively with all road users to enhance safety within local communities. The table on the following page outlines a range of potential interventions that will be developed and implemented to support ongoing improvements in road safety across North Ayrshire.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 27 Road User Partners North Ayrshire Council Commitments Pedestrian Local authorities Police Scotland Promotion of pedestrian safety and use of crossing facilities. Cyclist Local authorities Police Scotland Active Travel Team Promotion of safe and considerate cycling via events and social media. Horse Rider Local authorities Police Scotland Local Stables Awareness-raising events and promotions. Motorcycling and Scooters Local authorities Police Scotland Fire Service Motorcycle groups Institute of Advanced Motoring Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Camera Safety Partnership Develop the motorcycle training days. Promote awareness to other road users Drivers and Passengers Local authorities Police Scotland Fire Scotland Scottish Ambulance Service Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents Institute of Advance Motoring Camera Safety Partnership Younger Drivers: Events and promotions to ensure younger drivers are aware of their responsibilities. Older Driver: Engage with older drivers to develop an appropriate initiative. Safe Speed: As one of the five Safe System Outcomes, there will be the continual promotion of speed awareness and inclusion within all driver initiatives. Drink and Drug Driving: Work to promote the consequences of Drink and Drug driving. Child in-car Safety: Engage with parents to promote the correct use and fitting of car seats. Road Legal vehicles: Promote a driver’s responsibility for correct car maintenance. Mobile Phone use: Promotion of the law. Fatigue: Encourage and promote greater awareness around fatigue and its potential consequences. Foreign Drivers: Create awareness of the Highway Code. Management of Occupational Road Risk: providing information on safe driving for work
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 28 Road User Partners North Ayrshire Council Commitments All: Develop a pop-up intervention for use in small scale community venues Table 11 - Potential interventions to improve road safety All interventions developed as part of these commitments will be subject to evaluation by participants and assessed in the context of emerging issues. This process will determine their effectiveness in achieving desired outcomes and identify where adaptations may be required to enhance their impact. Emerging Risks E-Scooters An emerging road safety concern is the increasing availability and use of e-scooters. In recent years, their sale and unlawful use have become more prevalent. Under current legislation, the use of e-scooters in public spaces is prohibited. They may only be used legally within government-approved rental schemes or on private land, subject to specific conditions. North Ayrshire Council’s Road Safety team has worked collaboratively with internal and external partners to ensure that clear, accurate, and consistent information is communicated to the public regarding the legal status and safe use of e-scooters. The Council will continue to monitor the development, prevalence, and use of e-scooters, alongside any changes in legislation or policy. Where necessary, appropriate interventions, awareness campaigns, and enforcement measures will be developed in partnership with relevant stakeholders to address emerging risks and promote public safety.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 29 Collaborative Working Partners Road Safety will continue to work collaboratively with partner organisations, including Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the Scottish Ambulance Service, National Health Service, the Scottish Safety Camera Partnership, the Walking, Wheeling and Cycling Trust, Living Streets, and neighbouring local authorities, to deliver projects and interventions. This partnership approach provides a range of benefits, including the sharing of expertise, improved efficiency through reduced costs and workload, and enhanced access to potential funding opportunities. North Ayrshire Council, in partnership with key stakeholders, will continue to implement the Safe System outcomes of safer speeds, safer roads and roadsides, safe road use, safer vehicles, and effective post-collision response. This work includes the ongoing review of data relating to road use, including speed and collision information, to inform evidence-based decision-making. The Council works collaboratively with partner organisations to develop and deliver initiatives and projects aimed at proactively improving road safety across North Ayrshire. The Safe System approach reflects a shared responsibility among government, road users, road authorities, vehicle manufacturers, and other stakeholders. North Ayrshire Council will continue to support initiatives aligned with the Road Safety Scotland 2030 and 2050 targets, while developing, promoting, and evaluating measures that deliver positive outcomes for all road users within the framework. Partnership working with Police Scotland extends beyond joint events and educational initiatives. Regular liaison meetings are held to discuss current and emerging road safety issues, providing an opportunity for each partner to share updates on road collision data. In addition, North Ayrshire Council convenes an annual Combined Ayrshire Road Safety meeting, attended by representatives from the emergency services and the three Ayrshire local authorities. This forum enables participants to exchange information and engage in open discussion to inform the development of future road safety interventions.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 30 Decriminalised Parking Enforcement and Pavement Parking In 2024, North Ayrshire Council introduced Decriminalised Parking Enforcement, including the enforcement of pavement parking prohibitions under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019. By promoting responsible parking of vehicles across North Ayrshire, we play a vital role in ensuring better road safety for all road users. Promotion of Decriminalised Parking Enforcement and Pavement Parking enables the safer movement of vulnerable road users throughout North Ayrshire. Under the 2019 Transport (Scotland) Act, North Ayrshire Council can prevent vehicles from obstructing pavements, dropped kerbs and pedestrian routes, this action improves visibility, reduces road user conflict, protects vulnerable road users, and ensures that people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, older residents, parents with prams and children can move freely, safely and confidently around our communities.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 31 Implementation of 20 miles per hour speed limits As part of the National Road Safety Framework, North Ayrshire Council, in partnership with Transport Scotland, is progressing the implementation of 20 mph speed limits across the local road network. These limits apply to urban routes, reducing vehicle speeds within built-up areas throughout the region. Safe Speed is one of the five key Safe System outcomes, and the introduction of 20 mph speed limits supports the Council’s objective of creating a safer road network. Speed is a well-established contributory factor in road traffic collisions. Reducing the speed limit from 30 mph to 20 mph on urban roads is expected to lower vehicle speeds and significantly improve survival rates for vulnerable road users in the event of a collision. Evidence indicates that the likelihood of a pedestrian fatality is substantially higher when impacted by a vehicle travelling at 30 mph compared to 20 mph. Furthermore, the promotion of lower speed limits contributes to creating a safer and more accessible environment, encouraging all road users to travel more confidently within their communities. The implementation of 20 mph speed limits has been supported through funding provided by Transport Scotland. These measures have been introduced under Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders (TTROs) for an 18-month period, allowing North Ayrshire Council to monitor and evaluate their effectiveness before determining whether they should be made permanent. As part of this evaluation, feedback will be sought from key stakeholders, including Police Scotland and local communities. Prior to the promotion of any Permanent Traffic Regulation Orders (PTROs), a public consultation process will be undertaken to provide residents and organisations with the opportunity to offer feedback and suggestions.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 32 External Funding Opportunities North Ayrshire Council seeks external grant funding to support the delivery of projects that fall outwith the scope of the annual service plan. The Road Safety Improvement Fund, in particular, provides an opportunity to address both established and emerging issues, enabling the early application of the Safe System approach to road safety. Access to additional grant funding opportunities also allows North Ayrshire to support the development of road safety education and active travel initiatives. Historically, the Council has progressed projects encompassing both ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ measures. These complementary approaches work together to create a safer road environment, address identified road safety concerns, and improve connectivity between communities. Road safety education plays a key role in raising awareness and promoting safe behaviours, supported by targeted materials and interventions designed to encourage appropriate road use. Soft Measures Trailblazers project - A Road Safety and Active travel project. Creating 5 / 10 min school walking zones. QR codes were used to ask a daily road safety question over a 6-week period. Hard Measures Through the Road Safety Infrastructure Fund provided by Transport Scotland, North Ayrshire Council has successfully secured funding for a number of projects. These initiatives are directly focused on improving road safety and reducing collisions, in line with the five Safe System outcomes. Project Road User Safe System pillar Pathway improvements, dropped kerbs and tactile paving Pedestrian Cyclist Driver / Rider Safe Road User or Safe Roads and Roadsides Installation of traffic calming Pedestrian Cyclist Driver / Rider Safe Road User or Safe Speeds Improved signalised crossing facilities Pedestrian Cyclist Driver / Rider Safe Road User or Safe Roads and Roadsides Table 12 - A sample of previous years projects
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 33 Examples of some previous projects: New Street, Irvine – Double Pedestrian Light Crossing to improve safety at crossing for new early years pupils and staff. Improved connectivity and active travel link to local facilities and railway station. Alma Road, Brodick – New Junction Layout to improve all ability access and crossing point provision. Removal of confusing road layout, putting vulnerable road users first. Glencloy Road, Brodick - Junction realignment to widen the footway at the corner and install a new crossing point. Improved sight line aids active school travel and pedestrian access to the north Brodick areas. Tactile paving to improve accessibility.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 34 High Road, Saltcoats – New footpath across existing desire line with an uncontrolled crossing point and refuse island. Provides a new crossing point to encourage pedestrians and cyclists to cross at a single point. Ayr Road, Irvine – Renewed Zebra Crossing, including Road Markings and Anti-skid. Upgrades to the Zebra Crossing facility, making it easier for all road users to see. Additional road markings will improve driver behaviour by defined places to turn and stop.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 35 Education: School and Colleges Road safety awareness and understanding begin at an early age within Early Years Centres and schools. During this formative stage, children develop essential skills, including how and where to cross roads safely. The development of road safety awareness and behaviours is supported within educational settings through dedicated Road Safety Education programmes. In addition, the Road Service considers the environment surrounding educational establishments, implementing appropriate engineering measures such as pedestrian crossings, traffic calming features, road markings, and signage. In line with national guidance, these measures may be complemented by the provision of School Crossing Patrols where appropriate. Educational Services is responsible for the provision of School Crossing Patrols and applies national guidelines, as set out by Road Safety GB, to determine their necessity. In 2025, a comprehensive review of the School Crossing Patrol Service was undertaken, with each location assessed to ensure it met the established criteria for provision. Road Services works collaboratively with relevant Council services to assess the suitability of routes to school, particularly where transport provision may be required. Walking Route Assessments are undertaken in accordance with national guidance produced by Road Safety GB. Road Services will continue to enhance, support, and develop strategies and interventions that encourage increased uptake of active travel for school journeys. Promoting active travel contributes to improved physical and mental wellbeing, supports the local environment and community, and enables children and families to apply essential road safety skills in practical settings. Developing these skills from an early age supports safer decision-making and promotes lifelong safe road use. The tables below, which outline project interventions across each educational level, will be subject to ongoing monitoring and evaluation throughout the duration of this plan.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 36 Early Level (3 years to Primary 1) Introduction to road safety occurs at this stage; projects and initiatives allow a child to understand road safety and active travel at a young age. Road Safety topics cover a wide range of subjects from holding hands to balanceability or Play on Pedals. It is vital to work with this age group to aid their development and understanding of crucial road safety skills for life. Road Safety supports activities in the early level with group activities, play, peer encouragement, providing resources and signposting national campaigns, such as Ziggy. Project Partners North Ayrshire Council Commitments Ziggy Road Safety Scotland Early Years Centres To promote Ziggy Educational presentations Early Years Centres Develop online content and signpost Road Safety Scotland Balanceability or Play on Pedal schemes Cycling Scotland Early Years Centres Secure funding for staff training, provide materials and grow the scheme within North Ayrshire. Scooter Skills Early Years Centres Restart and grow the scheme and utilise Junior Road Safety Officer’s to aid in the uptake across centres. People who help us Emergency Services Determine suitable avenues to promote activities across centres. Little Feet (Potential pilot) Living Streets Will investigate the potential of implementing this scheme within North Ayrshire. Table 13- Early Level (3 years to Primary 1)
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 37 First and Second Level (Primary 2 to Primary 7) A child will gain independence between the ages of 6 to 11. Engaging with children at this age group will allow them to develop their road safety skills and be more aware of their surroundings and how their everyday choices and actions can have both positive and negative effects. Typically, a child will use multiple modes of transport in their daily life. Road Safety Education provides children with a developing skill set to help them make informed judgements when making journeys. Project Partners North Ayrshire Council Commitments iCycle None To increase uptake within Schools. Look to revitalise training. Hands Up Scotland Survey Walk, Wheel, Cycle Trust Increase schools participating All Ayrshire Training days - Junior Road Safety Officer - School Staff training Neighbouring Local Authorities Education Revitalise the JRSO initiative and provide training to staff Road Safety presentations Ayrshire Roads Alliance Continue to grow and develop and signpost Road Safety Scotland Roadstars Road Safety Scotland Promote initiative and signpost Road Safety Scotland Go On Get Out There Active Travel Team Continue to promote and increase awareness whenever the Grant is available. Travel Smart Active Travel Team Increase awareness Theatre Groups Road Safety Scotland Provision of road safety plays to schools Transitional Project Education Active Schools Develop a suitable intervention Out of School group Brownies or Scouts Develop child-led activity Infrastructure improvements Walk, Wheel, Cycle Trust Living Streets Education Where required, look to improve infrastructure around schools. Provide bike racks / shelters when required. Scooter Skills Neighbouring Local Authorities Active Travel Utilise Junior Road Safety Officer’s to aid in the uptake Table 14- First and Second Level (Primary 2 to Primary 7)
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 38 Third Fourth and Senior Phase (Senior 1 to Senior 6) Moving to secondary school, pupils may travel further to access education. More often, journeys will be independent or with peer groups. Longer journeys may increase the complexity of the journey. Many may cycle and then move on to driving or motorcycling during this phase. Road Safety Education must create opportunities to engage with young adults to help develop positive and responsible road users during these phases. Project Partners North Ayrshire Council Commitments Your Call (Senior 1 to Senior 4) Road Safety Scotland Promote initiative and signpost Road Safety Scotland Crash Magnets (Senior 3 to Senior 6) Road Safety Scotland Emergency services Promote and increase uptake Mechanimals (In Development) Road Safety Scotland Promote new initiative once it becomes available. Theatre Groups Road Safety Scotland Use to promote safer road users Combined Ayrshire Road Safety Police Fire and Rescue Scottish Ambulance Service Camera Partnership Neighbouring Local Authorities Carry out young driver intervention throughout all secondary schools Hands Up Scotland Survey Walk, Wheel, Cycle Trust Increase uptake within schools Go On Get Out There Active Travel Continue to promote and increase awareness whenever the Grant is available. Infrastructure Walk, Wheel, Cycle Trust Education Cycling Scotland Where required, look to improve infrastructure around schools. Provide bike racks / shelters when required. Table 15 - Third Fourth and Senior Phase (Senior 1 to Senior 6) Additional Support Needs Road Safety Education historically provided the a2b safely resource for Additional Support Needs pupils aged 10 to 18 years. A newly developed Travel Together Safely resource has been created to enable the development of independent travel with pupils within this age range. This is a national resource provided by Road Safety Scotland.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 39 Road Safety Action Plan From 2026 to 2030, the Road Safety Plan will provide a strategic framework to guide the delivery of road safety education and training. Achieving the ambitious Vision Zero target will require the continued development and implementation of schemes and projects that support North Ayrshire’s road users and contribute to reducing casualties across the network. Road Safety will continue to deliver educational resources and practical training for all road user groups. Building on existing progress and adopting the Safe System approach, the following priorities will be advanced: • Focusing on key user groups, including those aged over 70 and motorcyclists • Delivering road safety education through a range of formats, including presentations and training events • Utilising both social media and traditional communication channels to raise awareness and provide information • Maintaining and strengthening partnership working • Participating in relevant strategic groups and forums • Identifying and implementing appropriate engineering measures where required • Developing and sustaining proactive interventions • Designing and implementing data-led interventions where appropriate
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 40 Item Actions Council Priority SNAP Priority National Framework Safe System Links Potential Interventions Safe Road Users Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Post Crash 1 Vision Zero by 2050 Follow both the National Road Safety Framework and Local North Ayrshire Road Safety Plan. 2 Reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions involving any age group Host both public and schools events targeting age groups. Offer appropriate training to user groups. Use print and social media to promote North Ayrshire and Road safety Scotland campaigns. Promote Safe System and Highway code changes. Liaise with organisations to discuss causation factors of collisions. Signpost expert or further practical training.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 41 Item Actions Council Priority SNAP Priority National Framework Safe System Links Potential Interventions Safe Road Users Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Post Crash 3 Reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions involving under 16s Deliver Road Safety interventions across educational establishments. Continue to increase uptake in Junior Road Safety Officers (JRSO), iCycle training and secondary school interventions. Use social media to engage and promote national adverts. 4 Reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions involving 16 – 24-year-olds Deliver young driver / rider at educational establishments. Use social media to promote awareness and knowledge. 5 Reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions involving over 70s Host public events covering topics and training appropriate to this group. Explore new ways to increase participation. 6 Promote changes such as 20mph Speed Limits and Decriminalised Parking Provide materials and promote via social & traditional media.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 42 Item Actions Council Priority SNAP Priority National Framework Safe System Links Potential Interventions Safe Road Users Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Post Crash 7 Measure and evaluate Key Performance Indicators Attend the Local Partnership Forum meetings to update local statistics. 8 Mode specific training events Host events applicable to the more vulnerable road user groups, such as Motorcycle, Horse riders and Cyclist 9 Increase attendance at organised events Improve the reach of marketing & advertising of the events. Incentives to attend and reduce no-shows. 10 Promote greater knowledge of Road Safety, the Highway code and the Safe System approach Use of social media for the public. In school use of Junior Road Safety Officers. 11 External Funding opportunities Apply for funds to support road safety improvements, increase awareness of road safety and encourage safer travel whether active or motorised.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 43 Item Actions Council Priority SNAP Priority National Framework Safe System Links Potential Interventions Safe Road Users Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Post Crash 12 Safe Speed Look to educate all road users on safer slower and appropriate speed Installation and promotion of 20mph speed limits. 13 Drink and Drug driving Use of social media to promote seasonal campaigns. Include in all driver interventions. Include information on prescription drugs. 14 In car safety and distractions Mobile phones / devices / Child in-car safety Educate all on safety and enforcement, using all tools, direct contact and social media promotion 15 Road Legal Vehicles Promote basic car checks and seasonal tyre safety. Use social media and include practical skills knowledge at all events.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 44 Item Actions Council Priority SNAP Priority National Framework Safe System Links Potential Interventions Safe Road Users Safe Roads Safe Vehicles Safe Speeds Post Crash 16 Driver or Rider safety: Physical and mental wellbeing Fatigue Promote responsibility for understanding the effects of health conditions or fatigue on vehicle control and ability to drive via events or social media. 17 Foreign Drivers Use social or print media to promote and sign post national resources. 18 Management of Road Risk Raise awareness of Highway Code Table 16 - Road Safety Action Plan
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 45 Monitoring & Evaluation By establishing clear actions, supported by robust monitoring of traffic and road user behaviour, performance can be effectively evaluated to ensure the outcomes of the Road Safety Action Plan are achieved, while contributing to national targets. Monitoring of interventions will generate both quantitative and qualitative data, enabling the assessment of targeted initiatives. Where appropriate, independent third-party evaluations may be commissioned to provide additional technical expertise. Evaluation findings will inform the effectiveness of implemented interventions and support the development of future measures. Engagement with road users and local communities will be undertaken where appropriate to inform this process. Monitoring will be conducted using a range of methods, depending on the nature of the intervention, including: • Collision data analysis • Speed surveys • Condition surveys • Questionnaires
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 46 Statutory Responsibilities and Governance The Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 places statutory responsibility for local roads with local authorities. In addition, the Road Traffic Act 1988 requires local authorities to prepare and implement a programme of measures to promote road safety and to take appropriate action to prevent accidents, including the provision of information and advice relating to road use. The successful delivery of the North Ayrshire Council Road Safety Plan will rely on effective collaboration among all stakeholders. This requires a proactive and transparent approach, ensuring that all partners clearly understand their roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities, whether operating at a local, regional, or national level. A clear governance structure is essential to support the reporting of outputs, outcomes, and benefits arising from projects, programmes, and formal proposals that require strategic decision-making. The Governance Structure is shown below: Road Safety Scotland Local Partnership Forum (West) North Ayrshire Council Transport Scotland Strathclyde Partnership for Transport Emergency Services West of Scotland Road Safety Forum Scottish Safety Camera Partnership Safer North Ayrshire Partnership (SNAP) National Health Service Ayrshire and Arran
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 47 Afterword North Ayrshire Council Road Services will take a lead role in the development of road safety interventions, working in partnership with relevant organisations, neighbouring local authorities, and both internal and external stakeholders to promote all aspects of road safety. In recent years, this role has evolved to incorporate elements of enforcement alongside education and engineering. For example, the enforcement of parking restrictions can improve the availability of road space, enhance accessibility for vulnerable road users, and reduce potential conflicts between users. Enforcement activity, delivered by both North Ayrshire Council and Police Scotland, complements education and engineering measures, contributing to the creation of safer and more inclusive communities and road environments. Within the Safe System approach, the Council’s role is to ensure that all five system outcomes are embedded in discussions and decision-making relating to road safety. This will support progress towards achieving both immediate and interim targets, as well as the long-term Vision Zero ambition for 2050. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and achieving safer roads requires a collective commitment from all stakeholders to work collaboratively in the interests of all road users.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 48 Glossary Balanceability or Play on Pedals: Early Years program teaches pupils how to cycle. Go on Get Out There: Internal grant fund for schools. iCycle: North Ayrshire Councils road safety-based cycling program for primary 6 pupils IAM Road Smart: Previously, Institute of Advanced Motoring, Road Safety Charity Junior Road Safety Officer: Primary 6 / 7 pupils who promote Road Safety in Schools Local Partnership Forums: Organised by Transport Scotland. We attend the west group, provide updates on work, collision statistics and collaboration. Living Streets Scotland: Part of the UK charity for everyday walking. Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA): Dedicated to saving lives and preventing serious injuries. Road Safety Factor: Road safety factors are circumstances that the attending police officer believes contributed to the occurrence of a road collision. Road Safety Scotland: Part of the Scottish Government that provides strategic aims and policies to support the work of Road Safety teams across Scotland. Safer North Ayrshire Partnership: develop and deliver key actions with the wider Community Planning Partnership Strathclyde Partnership for Transport: joint working across local authorities and regional stakeholders to strengthen the planning and delivery of regional transport. Police Scotland Safety Cameras: is the collective name for the three Safety Camera Units that operate across Scotland - North, East and West - which manage the administration for speed and red-light cameras Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation: Scottish Government’s official tool for identifying and ranking areas across Scotland according to relative levels of deprivation. Transport Scotland: The national transport agency for Scotland, delivering the Scottish Government's vision for transport. Travel Smart: North Ayrshire Council program to encourage active and sustainable travel Walk and Wheel Trust: Formerly, Sustrans Scotland. A charity which promotes Active and sustainable travel across Scotland West of Scotland Road Safety Forum: Working group of road safety officers, engineers and technicians from local authorities in the West of Scotland Region.
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Road Safety Plan 2026 to 2035 Draft document for approval only – Version 2.6 49 Contact North Ayrshire Council Neighbourhood Services Cunninghame House Irvine KA12 8EE roadsafety@north-ayrshire.gov.uk