Two petrol stations in York temporarily closed on 28 March 2026 after running out of fuel, as nationwide supply pressures begin to impact local motorists. The stations at the Sainsbury’s and Asda sites at Monks Cross shopping centre were forced to stop sales after fuel supplies were exhausted.
Sainsbury’s has since reopened its pumps to customers. Asda confirmed that their closure was temporary while they awaited a fuel delivery. These shortages come as national fuel prices have risen significantly, with petrol exceeding 150p per litre for the first time in nearly two years and diesel costs climbing towards 180p per litre.
The current disruption is linked to the US-Israel war on Iran, which began on 28 February 2026, and Iran’s subsequent blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping channel for global oil supplies. While some local stations have faced issues, Fuel Industry UK and the Petrol Retailers Association issued a joint statement to reassure the public that the overall UK fuel supply remains stable, noting that there is no need for drivers to change their usual buying habits.
Asda executive chairman Allan Leighton acknowledged that demand has been outstripping supply in some areas, though he stressed that the issue only affects a small number of forecourts. Meanwhile, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero maintains an emergency plan for potential shortages, which includes measures such as fuel rationing, adjusted opening hours for filling stations, and lower speed limits if the situation continues.
As fuel prices remain high, authorities are also reminding residents to be vigilant regarding the security of their vehicles. Police in Wiltshire have advised motorists to take steps to secure their cars against the risk of fuel theft.
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