New Traffic Commissioner for Scotland

06 January 2026

Sharon Clelland has been appointed as the new Traffic Commissioner for Scotland, taking up the role on 6 April 2026.

She joins the role from her previous position as Head of Legal Services at the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC), the independent body responsible for overseeing policing in Scotland.

The Traffic Commissioner plays a key role in:

• Operator licensing decisions

• Public Inquiries

• Regulatory action

• Professional competence standards

• Road safety oversight

A new appointment often signals renewed focus and priorities.

Given Ms Clelland’s background in legal services and policing oversight, operators can expect continued emphasis on:

• Compliance

• Governance

• Road safety

• Professional standards

Changes in leadership do not alter the core legal framework, but they can influence how standards are enforced.

Now is a good time for operators to:

• Review licence undertakings

• Check maintenance and driver compliance systems

• Ensure Transport Managers understand their responsibilities

• Confirm CPC training records are up to date

• Review Public Inquiry preparedness

How Back Academy can support your compliance

At Back Academy, our Operator Licence Awareness, Transport Manager Refresher and Driver CPC courses are designed to help operators stay compliant with current regulatory expectations.

Whether you are:

• A new Transport Manager

• Preparing for a Public Inquiry

• Reviewing internal systems

• Supporting drivers through ongoing CPC

We can help ensure your business remains aligned with Traffic Commissioner expectations.

If you would like to book a course or discuss tailored compliance training for your team, contact Back Academy today.