Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser has raised concerns over the alarming closure rate of rural petrol stations across Scotland.
Figures provided by the Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) show 97 petrol forecourts have shut down north of the Border between 2010 and 2012, representing a 14% decline in Scotland and the fastest rate of closures anywhere in Britain.
In 1970 there were 37,500 forecourts across Britain, now only 8,600 remain.
Rural areas have been hit particularly hard with closures across Highland Perthshire and beyond.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“For rural residents these closures represent a growing concern. The number of closures has reached the stage where some rural residents in Highland Perthshire must travel over 30 minutes to their nearest petrol station.
“We are consuming less petrol today than in 2007 and that can only be good news. However for remote residents who are reliant on motor transport, there must be the correct level of petrol station infrastructure to ensure a ready and secure supply of fuel.
“Supermarket petrol stations have been blamed for many closures and whilst they have contributed to the decline of the rural forecourt, other forces are at work.
“I would like to see the Scottish Government take a more pro-active role in administering support for rural petrol stations.”