Remote rural areas among those experiencing the largest population decline

REMOTE rural areas and remote small towns have experienced the largest declines in population, according to figures released by Scotland’s national records body.

According to National Records of Scotland (NRS), analysing data up to June 30 last year, large cities and so-called ‘accessible rural areas’ showed the greatest population increases.

Says the NRS, here: “71 per cent of Scotland’s population live in large urban and other urban areas. Large urban areas, along with accessible rural areas, have seen the largest growth in the last ten years. Remote small towns have seen the largest population drop.

“Today’s Small Area Population Estimates provide a breakdown of Scotland’s population into almost 7,000 small geographical areas, known as data zones.

“Scotland has an ageing population. Over the last decade, rural and island areas have aged the most.

“Figures show the median age – the age at which half the population is younger and half is older – increased in 94 per cent of Na h-Eileanan Siar data zones, the highest increase of all council areas in Scotland.

“In Dundee City, which had the lowest increase of all council areas, the median age increased in 52 per cent data zones.”

The announcement adds: “Inverclyde had the highest percentage of its population (30 per cent) living in the most deprived areas in Scotland. East Renfrewshire had the highest percentage of its population (38 per cent) living in the least deprived.”

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland