Introduction
The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD) set out the mandatory requirements for the use of traffic signs and road markings on the road network.
Powers over traffic signs were devolved to Scottish Ministers under The Scotland Act 2016. Prior to this the TSRGD was applied on a UK wide basis by the Department for Transport.
A Scottish Statutory Instrument (SSI) was introduced in May 2022, to enable the devolved TSRGD to be updated to meet the needs of the network in Scotland. This can be accessed at the link: The Traffic Signs Amendment (Scotland) Regulations and General Directions 2022 (legislation.gov.uk). Where the term SSI is used in this document it refers to The Traffic Signs Amendment (Scotland) Regulations and General Directions 2022.
TSRGD 2016 remains the principal legislation which is amended by the SSI. Amendments introduced to the TSRGD through the SSI address the following issues:
- Prescribing signs for Low Emission Zones (LEZ);
- Prescribing signs which are already in common use but not currently within the regulations;
- Scotland specific amendments to reflect unique requirements of the Scottish road network;
- Updating symbols for agencies/authorities such as Forestry and Land Scotland and RSPB; and
- Supporting signing for modern infrastructure such as vehicle charging and motorhome service points.
This guidance offers advice to traffic authorities and their contractors, designers and managing agents in Scotland, on the amendments made by the SSI. Whilst the guidance can assist in complying with the mandatory requirements of TSRGD, it cannot provide a definitive legal interpretation, nor can it override them.
The advice is given to assist authorities in the discharge of their duties under the relevant Acts. Subject to compliance with the Directions, which are mandatory, it is for traffic authorities to determine what signing is necessary to meet those duties.