A77 speed limit set to be lowered

Feb 27 2008 Ayrshire Post

THE speed limit will be cut on one of the most dangerous sections of the A77 next month.

The 70mph run between Bogend Toll and Dutch House will be slashed to 50mph.

And transport chiefs say the move, which comes into force on Monday, March 10, is key to saving lives.

The busy section of road carries 34,000 vehicles every day and is a vital link to Glasgow via the M77.

And it’s been the scene of several horrific accidents in recent years, which have claimed several lives.

SPECS average speed cameras operate along the route and drivers are being warned to heed the changes.

Jim Barton, Transport Scotland’s chief roads engineer and director said: “Transport Scotland has a responsibility to ensure safety on the trunk road network and we view this reduced speed limit as an important means of achieving this.”

Chief Inspector Jim Igoe is area commander for road policing and spokesperson for the A77 safety group.

He added: “The reduction in speed limit has been introduced for the safety of all road users on that section of the A77.

“It is most important therefore that drivers take notice of the change and make a conscious effort to stay within the new limit.

“We will be monitoring the situation closely and hope that the constant presence of the average speed cameras and visible road patrols will encourage compliance.”

For more information on the new limit and the A77 in general, visit www.a77safetygroup.co.uk