Business groups still hopeful of runway extension progress

In the wake of the States’ rejection of a proposal to prepare a business case for a runway of between 1,700 and 1,800m, the Institute of Directors and Chamber of Commerce have issued a joint statement.

They were disappointed that, despite the significant time and resource used, no progress was made.

Policy & Resources had two proposals on the runway, one of which was to press ahead with the preparation of a business case but at a predicted high cost, and the other was to cease all further investigation into a runway extension apart from ongoing research into making 1,570m of runway available.

Both propositions were defeated – unsurprisingly, said the business groups, since the recommendation was to terminate policy development without a fact-based cost-benefit analysis.

But they did see something positive after the nine-hour debate. ‘The only meaningful political conclusion has been to pass the mandate for further investigation back to Economic Development,’ they said.

‘Given the strong progress delivered by Economic Development over the last year with air links under open skies, the IoD and Chamber are encouraged that the mandate now sits with the committee to progress the evaluation process.

‘The business groups will continue to support its work. The election in June next year will present an opportunity for the island as a whole to indicate its support for ensuring Guernsey has great air connections that people can afford to use, making it a fantastic place to live, work and welcome visitors.’

Guernsey International Business Association chairman Tony Mancini said it shared the other groups’ sentiments.

‘Giba supported the proposition to undertake the review of the case for the runway extension, for no other reason than that we favour evidence-based decision-making on important issues,’ he said.

But despite being disappointed that no progress was made, the runway extension was but a longer-term aspect of an integrated air links infrastructure.

‘It should be borne in mind that Guernsey has an immediate problem with connectivity,’ said Mr Mancini. ‘We are at a distinct disadvantage compared to Jersey today and that problem needs a solution today.’