Thousands of roads to see speed limits lowered this year as council favours 20mph and walking

Moray council announced the changes alongside separate proposals to reshape Elgin town centre with new traffic restrictions, bollards and cycling infrastructure that could begin in spring 2026.

Both initiatives form part of efforts to enhance road safety and promote walking and cycling throughout Moray while pushing people to drive less.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

The 20mph rollout represents a significant shift in traffic management, targeting roads near schools, residential areas, shops and healthcare facilities.

Meanwhile, the Elgin proposals include rise and fall bollards to restrict vehicle access, one-way systems on key streets, and reorganised parking arrangements to create safer pedestrian and cycling routes.

The speed limit changes will be implemented through a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order lasting up to 18 months, allowing the council to assess effectiveness before making permanent alterations where suitable.

Transport Scotland will be funding the initiative, which will see between 4,000 and 5,000 signs installed across Moray. Most signs will be mounted on existing lampposts to minimise infrastructure costs.

The programme forms part of a Scottish Government plan to improve road safety by the end of 2025. Council officials have completed a comprehensive review of all roads in Moray to identify appropriate locations for the reduced limits.

An interactive map and complete list of affected roads will be published on the council's website in the coming months, enabling residents to check which streets will be impacted by the changes.

Councillor Marc Macrae, said: "We all want our streets to feel safer, especially for children walking to school or people getting out and about in their communities.

"Slowing down to 20mph in the right places can make a real difference, and we hope this change will encourage more people to walk or cycle with confidence."

The council explained that it will monitor the impact of the temporary measures before deciding which areas should retain the lower limits permanently. The phased approach allows for adjustments based on community feedback and traffic flow data.

The Elgin town centre proposals include installing rise and fall bollards, which would operate between 11am and 4pm to prevent unauthorised vehicle access while allowing deliveries and emergency services.

Plans feature one-way systems on Moss Street and Greyfriars Street to accommodate dedicated cycle lanes and wider pavements. The changes form part of an £18.3million Levelling Up Fund investment aimed at improving walking, cycling and public spaces.

New disabled parking bays will be created in more accessible locations to replace spaces being removed on Commerce Street for safer walking and cycling routes. The proposals also include modifications to waiting restrictions, loading bays, and taxi ranks to improve traffic flow and support outdoor hospitality.

A public information event will take place in Elgin town centre on July 12, covering various Levelling Up Fund projects and providing opportunities for feedback on the traffic proposals.

A further consultation will follow later in the summer, and if approved, work could commence in spring 2026 with completion expected by 2027.

Macrae added: "This is a fantastic opportunity to make Elgin town centre safer, greener and more inviting for everyone.

"These changes will help revitalise the area, support local businesses and encourage more people to walk and cycle. I'd urge everyone to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of our town centre."