Alderney politicians fear further delay over airport runway

A letter was sent to all deputies last week, stating it intends to hold a meeting this summer to decide whether to continue or scrap 30 major projects.

But neither of Alderney’s representatives in Guernsey– Alex Snowdon and Steve Roberts – actually received it. The pair had successfully lobbied in December for the States to back spending £24m. on option C – the most expensive option – which would see Alderney’s runway lengthened, widened and strengthened, and the construction of a new terminal building.

They were unclear what impact this could have on the redevelopment of Alderney’s runway, which has suffered potholes and subsidence.

Mr Snowdon said he understood P&R’s position on the Tax Review, but it was vital that the redevelopment of Alderney’s runway went ahead as agreed.

‘We can’t afford any more delays,’ he said.

‘If it goes to the States again, that would be a third debate. How many debates do we need before we see a spade in the ground?

'Option C is the cheapest and best option which was explained and agreed in the debate in December.

‘Hopefully we will have tenders going out soon, and I will be very disappointed if that tender process does not go ahead. I am concerned the Civil Aviation Authority will become involved if this is delayed any further.’

The letter also came as a surprise to States’ Trading Supervisory Board president Peter Roffey. His board has several high-profile projects that will come up for review, such as the dairy and the harbour, as well as responsibility for Alderney Airport.

‘I’m puzzled about how we can do a thorough review within just a couple of months,’ he said.

‘I don’t understand how we can take more than just a superficial look. To drill into any depth in that time would be difficult. I expected a review but not that funding would stop immediately, especially on projects that were approved recently. I understand it more on projects that have been around a while.’