The Policy & Resources Committee is proposing that instead of a big scramble for cash for projects at the start of every political term, projects can be raised at any time on a constantly rolling list.
‘The new approach puts more emphasis on good planning at an early stage, avoids committing money too soon, and allows the States to respond more easily if priorities change,’ said P&R president Lindsay de Sausmarez in a report to be debated by the States within the next couple of months.
‘It also ensures that decisions on major projects are made alongside the Medium‑Term Financial Plan and take account of wider financial pressures.
‘By making better decisions at the right time, this approach helps the States manage costs and financial risk more effectively.’
The States still has more than 20 projects on its ‘to do’ list and is looking to add two more priorities – a long-awaited upgrade of the Dairy and new wave gates at the harbour.
The total cost of the portfolio is topping £460m. with most hoped to be completed by the end of 2027.
The Dairy project, including the idea of moving to a new site, has been bumped from the essential list on several occasions but now it is being reprioritised to maintain the safe and reliable operation of the existing facility in the short to medium-term.
P&R said that given the nature of the works and the risk of unplanned disruption if delivery is delayed, it was considered appropriate for the project to become a priority again. A review of current facilities has seen the work deemed essential, at an estimated cost of up to £6m.
Replacement gates for the QEII Marina are said to be required to ensure the continued safe and effective operation of the marina.
It is said that failure of the gates would pose health and safety risks and could also impact income, the wider economy, and the States’ reputation.
The States Trading Supervisory Board will bring forward a policy letter with a £10.7m. total estimated delivery cost. This would be funded 50-50 between a States loan and general revenue funding.
P&R said that under its revised approach, projects can carry out early planning and development work before the States commits funding for full delivery, which would be agreed once there is a clear and shared view that the project can be afforded, a move which the committee said would ‘strengthen financial discipline while avoiding unnecessary delays’.