Guernsey Harbours said it is to ensure the safe use of the Bridge, particularly for pedestrians.

Commercial Manager of Ports, Doug Wright said the initial work is being done this month and a decision about introducing any charges will be made in the future.

“Consultants for Guernsey Harbours in conjunction with Property Services are due to carry out a survey of the Castle Bridge later this month, and work to install a Structural Health Monitoring System will also be carried out.

"This equipment will help Guernsey Harbours assess which vehicles may be allowed to use the Castle Bridge in the near future, and will allow for the continued safe public pedestrian access whilst monitoring the condition of the structure.

"Until this survey has been completed, no decisions will be made on whether any charging regime will be introduced to assess whether any vehicle is able to access the Castle Bridge in the future."

Picture credit Jules Holt. 

The survey work itself is due to start on Monday 25 February. While that is ongoing, public access to Castle Cornet and the lighthouse will be restricted at certain times. The Castle is currently closed anyway.

The survey is expected to be finished by Thursday 14 March, and decisions will be made after that about introducing a charging system.

Express understands businesses which are currently able to use the Bridge for vehicle access to the Breakwater or Castle Cornet have been notified about the possibility of charges being introduced.

There is expected to be opposition to any charges with some businesses saying it would be an unfair charge on those who need access to the area to do vital work. 

Pictured top: Castle Cornet.