Only 3.5% of population responds to Alderney survey

Only 75 people responded to a survey asking about the proposed nature and agriculture strategy

Only 3.5% of Alderney's population responded to a survey on the proposed nature and agriculture strategy.

Islanders were invited to comment on the draft strategy, issued in February.

The States said "although fewer than 3.5% of the population responded... the majority of those that provided feedback are in favour of the report in its current form"

It said the aim was to enhance and maintain nature and agricultural productivity for future generations.

The results showed 68% of responders were supportive of the strategy, 12% were against it and 20% were undecided.

The States said email responses "indicated clear support for a subsidy or grant scheme for local food production, including a review of existing policy to incentivise sustainability through exemptions and developing existing relationships with third-party organisations to achieve the aims and objectives of the strategy".

The final version of the strategy has been produced to include feedback, and States members will be able to comment of ask questions on them during a meeting in May.

The latest census information had the population of the island at 2,167 in March 2023.