Hopes Grande Mare offers boost to island economy

Representatives from both sectors agreed that the project, expected to cost ‘tens of millions’, could only mean good things for the local and tourist economy.

‘It’s really positive news for the island and for tourism,’ said Guernsey Hospitality Association president Alan Sillett.

‘We need reasons for people to come to Guernsey and this new resort and lodge would draw tourists in. We’re lucky to have such a person as Mr Lansdown make his home in Guernsey and want to invest in our island.’

John Bampkin, CEO of the Norman Piette Group and chairman of the Guernsey Construction Forum, agreed that the announcement was great news for the island and the local construction industry.

He said that Norman Piette would be keen to be involved in any tender process for suppliers and contractors for the development.

Although staffing issues related to guest workers are still prominent in Guernsey’s construction and trade industry, Mr Bampkin said that 2022 looked more promising for supply prices, which is good news for both contractors and investors.

He explained that both sides were losing margins and profit during 2021 when construction supply costs spiked.

‘Prices are still inflated, but it’s not as much as they were. It’s not on the same scale as we saw in 2021,’ said Mr Bampkin.

Mr Bampkin said projects like the upcoming refurbishment of La Grande Mare were great opportunities for Guernsey, but he continued to encourage good communication between investors, the States of Guernsey, and the local construction sector. He said it was really helpful and necessary for construction to understand the work that is in the pipeline so the local workforce can plan accordingly.

Mr Sillett said the Grande Mare refurbishment was a great opportunity for Guernsey, but he also highlighted the need for more investment generally in the hospitality sector, specifically the GHA’s desire for an extended airport runway to provide tourists and residents with greater connectivity.