Police will struggle to enforce new 20mph speed limit on Glasgow roads

The Scottish Police Federation has warned that officers will struggle to enforce the new 20mph speed limit introduced on Glasgow roads due to a lack of personnel.

The new restrictions are set to be rolled out by Glasgow City Council on approximately 3,700 streets throughout the year, in an effort to ensure built-up areas are “safer”.

Although the Scottish Police Federation agrees that the new measures will save lives, it has stated that there are not enough officers to enforce them.

General decretary David Kennedy says that without more officers on the affected streets, the 20mph speed limit will not be adhered to.

“What you can’t do is introduce it and think it’s going to increase the police presence within the areas”, he explained.

“And for anybody who breaks the law, this is not going to stop them from doing that.”

The local authority has confirmed it will continue to work closely with Police Scotland in efforts to improve road safety and the roll-out of the new speed limits.

A council spokesperson said: “Once the 20mph limits are introduced, they will apply just like any other speed limit and drivers should take heed of this new, safer speed.

“Clear signage and a public awareness campaign will accompany the rollout to help everyone understand where the limits apply and to maximise the safety benefits.

“Following implementation, the new speed limits will be closely monitored and evaluated for effectiveness.”

Police Scotland states that deployment of resources will target sites deemed to have the “greatest risk” and take place “in the interest of casualty reduction.”

A spokesperson from the force added: “This could include sites of previous collisions where speed has been a factor and areas with vulnerable road users, for example, at key arterial routes and roads near schools.

“The dangers of speeding are well-known. People who speed not only put themselves at risk, but also other members of the public, and drivers should take responsibility for their own actions when they get behind the wheel.”