Alderney getting ready to open the door further for business

Wednesday 31 May 2023

Alderney wants to know more about what opportunities it can take advantage of when its runway is redeveloped.

The island has commissioned Professor David Hart of Clarity Economic Consulting to produce an internal report.

He visited last week to meet members of the island’s Economic Development committee and the Chamber of Commerce.

His brief is to examine how a larger fleet of aircraft with as many as 20,000 additional passengers a year would impact Alderney’s tourism and business economy.

“This is an internal report to help EDC plan for its future after the Airport has been redeveloped, should it go ahead as currently scheduled,” said EDC Chair Alex Snowdon. “We need to know where the opportunities lie so we have commissioned this report to better understand how to plan for the future.

“Being in fiscal union with Guernsey means it is essential we unlock the benefits to the economy as we become much more open for business. Improving transport links is key for growth as we move away from the current fragile service.

“As former Chief Economist at British Airways, Professor Hart is well placed to understand the likely effect on our economy, information we need in order to prepare for the outcome and plan ahead to make best use of the opportunities. I look forward to his report.”

At the end of last year, the States backed the £24m scheme, of which £12m was set aside in 2019.

The States of Alderney will put in £3.5m.

But like all capital projects, it is now subject to a further vote in July when the States decides how to reprioritise its work.

The work to extend the runway, build a new terminal and fire station is scheduled to begin next year and expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2025.