A number of strategies seek action from the Scottish Executive to undertake certain trunk road schemes, notably construction of the M74 Northern Extension and upgrading of the A75, A77 and A96. These schemes are seen as important for local economic development. All authorities have a current Road Safety Plan or are preparing an updated one. There is general commitment to the current national target for casualty reduction and many authorities have set more detailed local targets for particular classes of casualty. Some strategies set out information on casualty reduction and road safety initiatives in considerable detail.
Road safety is an important factor in the prioritisation and design of road improvements.
Most authorities are reviewing their parking policies and introducing greater restrictions on charges on long-stay commuter parking in town centres. There are however a few authorities who do not appear to wish to limit town centre parking, on economic development grounds. Some authorities are linking parking restrictions with improved provision for public transport including bus priorities and park and ride. Some authorities have introduced maximum rather than minimum parking standards for new developments, as required by NPPG17, and several others are reviewing standards. Not all authorities however appear to be in favour of moving to maximum standards and some do not refer to the issue at all.