More 20mph zones on the cards
Most schools are already covered, and extra zones for Closeburn and Carronbridge are also being considered.
The introduction of 20mph speed limits is delivering positive results – and is set to be extended over the next year.
Reduced average speeds have already been clocked up in Annan, Lockerbie and Stranraer.
Dumfries and Galloway Council, with funding from the Scottish Government, will now roll out 20mph zones to other areas in the region.
An update report was recently presented to councillors at the economy and infrastructure committee.
It reads: “The programme to introduce 20mph limits in 17 large communities is progressing, prioritised by population to maximise impact. The temporary limits, in place for 18 months, aim to improve safety and encourage considerate driving.
“Monitoring so far shows reduced average speeds in Stranraer, Annan and Lockerbie. Heathhall/Locharbriggs will be assessed in early 2026/27.”
The next schemes for roll-out in 2026 are Dumfries, phase two, Newton Stewart/Minnigaff, Gretna, Kirkcudbright, Kirkconnel/Kelloholm, Moffat, Sanquhar, Lochmaben, Thornhill and Eastriggs.
These schemes are have just gone through the detailed design process, and full implementation of all schemes is programmed for 2026/27.
Mid and Upper Nithsdale Councillor Jim Dempster said: “There’s a list of communities that have been completed on the reduced 20 mph programme.
“It doesn’t include Carronbridge, and I’m sure officers told me that Carronbridge was to be included as well.
“I’ve been asked by the community of Closeburn why their settlement isn’t included.”
Kevin Morrison, the council’s road safety, strategy and development manager, replied: “So in terms of Carronbridge, yes, we are working with Transport Scotland and Amey, who are their agents, to roll out the 20 mph for Carronbridge.
“That is part of a package of works, which we have agreed with them for the likes of Sanquhar, Thornhill, and Kelloholm.
“As far as I’m aware those are progressing. The temporary traffic regulation order implement dates are imminent.
“So, we are rolling that out – and apologies for missing that on the list.”
He added: “In terms of Closureburn, it’s not something that Amey have engaged us with. I’m certainly happy to take that back to Transport Scotland, and discuss that with them. I can communicate that back to you at a later date.”
The council roads department also confirmed that every school, excluding Duncow Primary, has 20mph speed limits in place.
The 20mph zones update report explains: “This is a significant milestone which encourages and allows children and their families to travel safely to and from school every day.
“Following on from the 18-month temporary traffic order at Duncow, it was conceded that the speed reduction on the C11n was insufficient and was not therefore supported by Police Scotland.
“The part-time signs on the C11n (Dumfries-KirktonAuldgirth Road) are to be removed and replaced with ‘Children’ warning signs with sub plate ‘school’ mounted on a hi-visibility backing board with LED flashing units operating during school times.
“These works are still to be completed.”