Port Rowan, known for its summer tourism and cottage getaways is about to lose its only gas station this spring. People living in the Long Point area year-round will now have to travel farther just to fill up.

Locals say the lone gas station offers much-needed service, “it’s a lifeline here in Port Rowan.” Barry Foster believes the Esso in Port Rowan is essential, but the company that owns it says it’s no longer feasible to operate.

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Foster says he owns a bed and breakfast nearby and in his 22 years here, pumps were always at the location on Lakeshore and Long Point road.

In a statement to CHCH News, Parkland Corporation which owns and operates the Esso says in part, “due to varying reasons, the location is no longer economically viable for us… we appreciate that these stations are important to those in the community and understand that people will be disappointed…”

After March 31st the closest gas station for residents and cottagers is roughly 8 kilometres away.

Locals believe this will be a major inconvenience for visiting travellers and cottage owners in the Long Point Conservation Area.

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Norfolk County mayor Amy Martin responded saying, “I am working on preparing a letter to Parkland encouraging them to revisit their decision to close. Besides the very important service provided to our rural residents, Norfolk County has a significant amount of projected growth on its way…”

Parkland says places like Turkey Point, Tillsonburg, and Aymler are other options for gas and other essential services.

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