NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Use 30 October 2009 PERTH & KINROSS PETROL STATIONS 1999: 40 PERTH & KINROSS PETROL STATIONS 2008: 20 Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser is concerned at the rate by which the number of petrol stations in Perth & Kinross have declined over the last ten years, with the number having halved between 1999 and 2008. Figures obtained by the Scottish Conservatives have shown that over the past ten years the number of petrol stations has fallen by 42% nationally, making the rate of reduction in Perth & Kinross higher than the national average. Commenting, Murdo Fraser said: “I am very concerned that the number of petrol garages in Perth & Kinross has halved over the last ten years. In 1999 there were 40 garages in Perth & Kinross but the latest figures available show that in 2008 this has reduced to 20 garages. “Perth & Kinross is predominately a rural area where public transport is limited. It is therefore vital that we have petrol garages as the car is a necessity for many communities and families in Perthshire. I believe that the closure of petrol garages is of great concern to the local economy and can have a major impact on the local job market as well as the people who depend on the garages “As an MSP who lives in Perthshire, I understand the essential role that our local garages play in our communities, such as Alyth Central Garage and the Rannoch & Tummel Community Venture. These garages provide a vital service to local residents and businesses. “The SNP Government and the previous Lib/Lab Executive has given rural Scotland a disservice since devolution, with more and more rural amenities and services being eroded away. Our local garages, local schools, post offices are all being affected and the SNP Government must give support to rural communities and businesses to keep them vibrant and viable.” ENDS   back to top of page