Scottish Government: South West Scotland Trunk Roads Temporary Prohibition Order 2026

• The Scottish Government has issued a temporary prohibition order for South West Scotland trunk roads from January 1, 2026.
• The order restricts traffic and overtaking on certain sections of the M77, A75, and A78 routes until March 31, 2027.
• Companies with operations or supply chains in South West Scotland must adapt to these restrictions, which may impact delivery schedules and routes.

The temporary prohibition will remain in place until March 31, 2027, subject to review and potential extension.

The Scottish Government has issued a temporary prohibition order for South West Scotland trunk roads, effective from January 1, 2026. The order, published on legislation.gov.uk as SSI 2026 No. 241, restricts traffic and overtaking on certain sections of the M77, A75, and A78 routes. This measure aims to facilitate roadworks and maintenance activities along these critical transportation corridors.

The temporary prohibition will remain in place until March 31, 2027, subject to review and potential extension. During this period, drivers are prohibited from driving on specific sections of the roads, except for authorized vehicles or emergency services. The order also restricts overtaking on designated stretches of the M77 and A75 routes.

The affected areas include the M77 between junction 1A and 2, the A75 between the M77 and Dumfries, and the A78 between the M77 and Erskine Bridge.

This temporary prohibition order is made under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (c.27) and the Road Works (Authorisation of Emergency) Regulations 1988 (S.I. 1988/1196). The Scottish Government has invoked these powers to manage traffic flow and ensure public safety during roadworks and maintenance activities. The order is published on legislation.gov.uk, providing a clear record of the temporary restrictions.

The use of temporary prohibition orders allows for flexible management of road networks in response to changing needs and priorities. This approach enables the Scottish Government to balance competing demands on transportation infrastructure while minimizing disruptions to traffic flow.

The South West Scotland trunk roads temporary prohibition order has significant implications for transportation logistics in the region. Companies with operations or supply chains in South West Scotland must adapt to these restrictions, which may impact delivery schedules and routes. Compliance officers and lawyers should note that this order affects not only local businesses but also national and international companies reliant on these transportation corridors.

The temporary prohibition order highlights the need for forward planning and contingency measures by companies operating in the region. This includes identifying alternative routes, adjusting delivery schedules, and communicating with customers about potential delays. By understanding the implications of this order, businesses can minimize disruptions to their operations and ensure continued supply chain resilience.

Lawyers and compliance officers should note the potential impact on transportation logistics in South West Scotland, particularly for companies with operations or supply chains in the region.

Source: Original reporting via legislation.gov.uk