Deputies preparing U-turn on Alderney runway

The States of Guernsey approved the £24m project in December 2022

A number of deputies who initially supported an extension to Alderney's runway have warned they will now vote against the project because of rising costs.

The BBC understands the project is now likely to cost more than the original budget of £24m with some politicians suggesting it may now cost £37m.

Deputy Sue Aldwell said "if we're talking silly money" she would no longer support the project, while Deputy John Dyke said he had changed his mind about the scheme.

Guernsey's Policy and Resources (P&R) Committee has been approached for comment.

In December 2022, deputies voted by 22 to 14 to approve the extension to the runway at a cost of £24m.

Former Chief Minister Peter Ferbrache told the States if the project increased in cost by more than 10% it would return to the States for further approval.

His successor, P&R President Lyndon Trott has previously said he wanted another debate on the issue.

Aurigny's CEO Nico Bezuidenhout has stressed the importance of the project when it comes to ensuring the company breaks even.

When completed it would mean the States-owned airline could operate ATR aircraft into Alderney, phasing out the smaller Dorniers and reducing maintenance costs.

Some politicians have said because of this they would continue to support the project despite escalating costs.

Deputy Marc Leadbeater is one of those who wants to see the project proceed: "If we are going to back Nico to break even, we need to support this project."

Environment and Infrastructure member Simon Fairclough said he remained concerned about the state of Alderney's runway, but had been dissapointed at the length of time the tender process had taken.

Earlier this year the island's planning committee approved the plans for an extension and a new terminal building.