Alderney marina plan moves a step closer

Visiting yachts would be encouraged to stay longer if a marina is built, says the States

Developers are to study whether a marina would be financially viable in Alderney.

Alderney Developments Ltd (ADL) said it would study the costs and benefits to the island of a marina, which was first suggested more than 30 years ago.

The States has agreed to appoint ADL as the marina developer if the plans go ahead.

ADL said it expected to have a "concept plan" to discuss with the States by late summer.

It approved by the States, it could lead to public consultation on a marina.

'Starting point'

Neil Harvey, chairman of the policy and finance committee, said: "There is much work ahead but we remain hopeful that a marina scheme can be proven and are convinced that such a development would bring great benefits to the island and its people.

"We are in a superb position for sailors to France but our harbour does not provide any real shelter so they only stay a day when we would like them to stay longer.

"At the end of it we should have a pretty good idea if a marina is viable or not and of course we hope it will be."

ADL's project director Alan Fulford said the agreement was "only the starting point" but its surveyors, engineers and designers were ready for an "immediate start" on the study.