Decline in independent forecourts across rural UK

The Petrol Retailers’ Association (PRA) has reported a huge decline in the number of independent forecourts across the south-west and north of England. Figures show that in just five years, key counties have seen a 20% reduction in the number of smaller petrol filling stations. ‘This is a cause for concern for both consumers and the local businesses which are often family owned and operated, and that have had to close with the loss of local jobs and amenities,’ commented Brian Madderson, Chairman of the PRA. ‘South-west counties including Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire and Yorkshire have seen a worrying reduction in forecourts over the past few years resulting in emerging rural fuel deserts. People living in rural areas will find travelling ever more expensive as they drive further to fill up fuel.’