Road related injuries across Clydebank could be reduced if speed limits in Scotland's towns and cities are reduced to 20mph, according to new research.

Cutting the speed limit to 20mph could result in up to 755 fewer injuries a year - with savings of up to almost £40 million possible, a study by the Glasgow Centre for Population Health (GCPH) reveals.

The study found that road casualties could fall by between 531 and 755 incidents a year - saving between one and five lives - if the limit in built-up areas dropped.

Significant reductions in road traffic casualties and accidents are "potentially possible", according to the report.

These could result in savings of between £7.8 million and £39.9 million, based on a formula which factors in the cost of ambulances and medical treatment, loss of earnings and the "human cost of casualties".

Just over half (52 per cent) of the 54,000 accidents between 2013 and 2017, took place on 30mph roads, with 40 people killed, 732 seriously injured and 4,833 people slightly injured over the five years.

Green MSP Mark Ruskell is seeking to change the law to introduce a 20mph speed limit in built-up areas, and plans to bring a Member's Bill before Holyrood.

He said: "I am delighted to hear the report from GCPH highlights not only the significant benefits 20mph brings to people's lives, including their safety, health and well-being, but the substantial savings to the public purse."

According to the GPHS research, if a 13.5 per cent reduction in casualties was achieved, the savings could amount to £39.9 million.

However the report also stated that there could be some costs involved if the speed limit was cut to 20mph, with new signs required along with awareness raising campaigns.