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The States of Alderney is gauging interest in new tenants for the Nunnery following the decision to evict the Alderney Bird Observatory.
The ABO was given three-months notice, in May, to fly the coop, with Alderney's Policy & Finance Committee saying the observatory had not fulfilled the terms of its lease or invested any profits back into the conservation of the historic site.
It comes after the States spent £317,500 refurbishing the Nunnery to include hostel accommodation for up to 10 visitors. The island's Government is now planning for the autumn and the next chapter in the story of a site that is so rich in history.
“We are keen to find the right occupant with a vision for what can be achieved in this unique historical site, either singly or in a joint partnership initiative with another organisation,” said Ian Carter, Deputy Chair of the Policy & Finance Committee.
“We remain open to fresh ideas from both on-island and off-island organisations and will be happy to explore those ideas fully before we reach any decisions for the Nunnery’s future.”
The States of Alderney is pitching the Nunnery as an "excellent opportunity" for charities and businesses to take advantage of the Longis Bay site.
A spokesman added: "A Victorian building within the fort’s grounds, refurbished by the States of Alderney for the benefit of various interest groups, presents a superb opportunity for the right community organisation(s) to step in from later in 2021.
"The key being a commitment to the conservation of this heritage site and making it available to the community. Look out for the formal invitation to make expressions of interest in the autumn."
Interested parties should contact the Chief Executive’s office on ceo@alderney.gov.gg.
Pictured top: The States of Alderney wants to engage with local community groups and interested parties both on and off island to make full use of The Nunnery Heritage Site before reaching a decision on its future use (Credit: David Nash).
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