Diesel prices have surpassed the £2 per litre threshold at hundreds of petrol stations across Scotland, according to new analysis by BBC Scotland News. The spike, driven by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, has created significant financial strain for hauliers, farmers, and rural residents.
Data indicates that at least 226 sites, extending from the Scottish Borders to Shetland, are charging more than £2 for a litre of diesel. Prices in remote and island areas are particularly acute, with some Hebridean garages recording rates of 238.8p and 223p per litre. These figures stand in stark contrast to the cheaper fuel available at central belt supermarkets, creating a disparity of up to 50p per litre for island communities.
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) reported that operators are facing an additional £250 per week in fuel costs per vehicle. Richard Smith, the RHA managing director, highlighted that countries such as Spain, France, and Italy already provide diesel rebates for commercial vehicles. “It’s about time we caught up,” Smith stated, urging the UK government to scrap planned duty rises and introduce an essential user rebate for lorries, coaches, and vans.
For local business owners, the impact is immediate. Dave Neil, who runs Sinclair Haulage in Orkney, revealed his business is spending £400 a week more on diesel than before the summer. To mitigate losses, he has been forced to impose surcharges on customers, though he noted this measure is removed when fuel prices drop. Similarly, Norman MacAskill of N D MacAskill & Son described the situation as “devastating,” noting that fuel costs have risen from just 32p per litre four decades ago to £2.22 today. He warned that many established haulage firms are at risk of collapsing under the pressure.
The agricultural sector is also feeling the pinch. A spokesperson for National Farmers’ Union Scotland emphasized that fuel is a critical input cost, with rising prices directly increasing food production expenses. With harvest operations underway, there is little scope to reduce fuel consumption. Crofter and musician Amy Henderson from Kiltarlity described the situation as “deflating,” saying she is now making logistical decisions about whether to drive her car or truck, which also affects her pricing for performances.
Charities are not immune to the crisis. James Dunbar, chief executive of Inverness-based New Start Highland, stated that rising fuel costs directly affect the families they support. The charity relies on vans to deliver essential items and furniture to those in crisis and is currently transitioning to an fully electrified fleet, though the immediate impact of high prices remains a burden.
Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, noted that the UK average diesel price of 198.32p per litre is hovering near a new all-time high. He pointed out that the UK now has the most expensive diesel in Europe, priced 12p per litre higher than in Finland and the Netherlands. Petrol averages have also risen to 173.6p, its highest level in over four years.
In response to the crisis, the UK government confirmed it has extended the temporary 5p cut in fuel duty until 31 December. A spokesperson stated that the measure keeps diesel 11p per litre cheaper than it would have been under previous plans, asserting that the government continues to protect British people and businesses from the effects of global instability. Meanwhile, the AA has called for the retention of the 5p cut and suggested there is a strong case for additional diesel relief, particularly for small businesses such as taxi drivers and tradespeople who cannot easily pass costs onto consumers.
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