Speed limits for tractors to rise as of March – Dumelow International Ltd share their thoughts
 

Dumelow have responded to news that the government has official confirmed an increase in the weight and speed limit of tractors and trailers as of March 2015.

The change to speed and weight limits will take effect as of March 9 and will see the current limit of 24.39t for tractors towing agricultural trailers rise to a combined weight of 31t. The speed limit is also set to increase to 25mph compared to the previous limit of 20mph.

The new changes, originally announced in October by Clair Perry, transport minister, represent the first of many phases of changes relating to the weight and speeds of tractors and trailers set to take place in 2015.

Speaking after the confirmation of the plans, Mrs Perry said: “These increases, which I expected to create over £57 million a year in deregulatory savings for the farming industry will, when in force, update our regulations to better reflect modern machinery and bring British farmers more in line with their international counterparts.”

Henry Robinson, Country Land and Business Association (CLA) president, said: “Tractors are safer and faster than they were when these speed limits were imposed 27 years ago. These changes will make our rural roads safer by reducing the amount of overtaking that takes place.

“We will press for Ministers to consider further changes, especially related to the weight limit for heavier trailers. It is time to make sure the law reflects the major advance in technology that has taken place.”

Dumelow International Ltd, a global seller of reconditioned tractors, also embraced the move. A representative for Dumelow said: “As others in the industry have mentioned, one of the problems with the previous speed limit is that it was set many decades ago, when tractors weren’t half as safe or fast as they are in 2015. It’s only right that the speed limit is adjusted to reflect this fact and we’re sure this will benefit everyone, not just farmers.

“Let’s face it. Few people appreciate being stuck behind a tractor on a quiet country road, but with speed limits rising and tractors able to be driven faster as of March, this problem should start to go away.”

Notes for Editors:

1.       Dumelow International Ltd was established in 1996 is a UK-based seller of reconditioned tractors, including Massey Ferguson models. http://www.dumelow.co.uk/.

2.       Country Land and Business Association (CLA) was established in 1907 and is an organisation for individuals who own land, property or business in rural England and Wales. http://www.cla.org.uk/.