Guernsey Airport runway project budget approved

The budget for the Guernsey Airport runway redevelopment project has been approved by the States of Guernsey.

The £80m project, the largest capital project the island has ever undertaken, is aimed at equipping the airfield for a 30-year lifespan.

The proposal still needs planning permission and is currently undergoing an environmental impact assessment before the final plans are put forward.

The vote in the States was 40 in favour of the move and six against.

Deputies also agreed to accept the £55m tender from approved contractor Lagan Construction, which will undertake the main construction works.

The planned works, which are expected to take two years, include resurfacing the current runway, repositioning it 120m to the west and creating longer safety areas at both ends.

The concrete apron areas next to the terminal, where planes park, will also be replaced and a completely new drainage system installed.

The existing taxiways, which link the aprons and runway, also need resurfacing and realignment, along with new ground lighting and navigational aids.

The approach lights to the east and west of the airport will also move.