Funding approved for Castle Cornet bridge

Deputies criticised the lack of vision when it came to the future use of Castle Cornet

A £7m rebuild of the Castle Cornet bridge has been approved by deputies.

The States Trading Supervisory Board (STSB) put forward plans for a "like-for-like replacement of that structure with some design enhancements".

Deputies were critical of the cost of the project.

STSB President Peter Roffey said it was vital this scheme got the go ahead.

He said the bridge was way past the point of being renovated and needed replacement.

Former Chief Minister Peter Ferbrache said it was vital this project got the approval of deputies, as expert reports had identified the current bridge was at risk of failing.

The project was scrutinised by some deputies including Economic Development Committee member Deputy Simon Vermeulen.

He said "I question the value for money of this as it's extremely high. I'd argue extortionately high."

Deputy Aidan Matthews was also critical of the high cost of the construction of a new bridge.

Deputy Simon Vermeulen was critical of the costs associated with the project

Deputy Sasha Kazantseva-Miller said she was uneasy supporting the plans, as she wanted to know the future of Castle Cornet first before deciding to spend this money.

"Is today the right time to green light this project, with a lot of questions to answer about how Castle Cornet is used in the future," she said.

Deputy David De Lisle questioned the need for the rebuild and said he preferred repairing the current facility.

The plan was approved by a vote of 31-5.