Following a meeting with the Chair of Policy & Finance, we put together a Chamber submission to the States of Guernsey for yesterday’s debate on our runway.
We sent this submission to all 38 Guernsey Deputies and our Guernsey Reps ahead of the debate in which we discussed the economic implications should the runway not be rebuilt. We also advised that the runway should be resolved ahead of any debate on the 1948 Agreement.
It has been good to note that we have received support from some Guernsey Deputies and our own States.
ALDERNEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Alderney’s Economic Position and Runway Submission to Guernsey Deputies 9th April 2025
Alderney’s economy can only grow if it has a dependable air transport structure that can be relied upon throughout the year, providing adequate capacity within an accessible price structure. The current politicised uncertainty around the reconstruction of our runway (at its current length) continues to have a damaging effect on all aspects of current business including tourism, hospitality, finance, retail, medical appointments, families simply meeting and second home owners – and to building business and opportunity looking to the future.
We believe there need is for Alderney’s economy to strengthen and grow which would increase net tax take within the Bailiwick and therefore reduce the perception that the island is a financial encumbrance to the Bailiwick. This cannot happen without appropriately reliable and affordable air services which are intrinsically linked to the runway and airport infrastructure which in turn offers a vital lifeline when medical evacuations are required.
There is increasing unease as to when our disintegrating runway will be built. It was agreed some years ago within the States of Guernsey that the runway (currently of 877 metres) would be rebuilt with centre lighting installed at a price agreed at that time. This has still not happened and therefore the pricing has simply increased through time alone.
The Alderney Chamber stresses again the importance of air connectivity – hence the critical need for a safe runway and for a reliable air service to be maintained.
We are aware that the 1948 Agreement is on an agenda to be discussed. Before then, we would stress that it is most critical for the runway to be at the top of any agenda. In the knowledge of the state of its degrading surface, it is even possible that conditions may come together that result in closure. This would take Alderney into a serious downward spiral resulting in greater costs to the Bailiwick as social obligations become more substantial.
We understand that a Bailiwick Commission is to be set up. This, of course, must be an independent and objective commission in which Alderney must not merely be a consulted party but a positive contributing stakeholder. It is important that the terms of reference must be robust.
Chamber agrees with the States of Alderney’s position that this Commission must also take into account Alderney’s economic life as well as our constitutional and working relationships.
Andrew Eggleston, President of the Alderney Chamber of Commerce
On behalf of our Council and Membership