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After a number of specialists have shown interest in being hired to reconstruct Alderney Airport's runway, a preferred shortlist is going to be put together.
That short list will then lead in to design negotiations, which should lay out a clearer vision of what the final work will look like.
In 2019, the States agreed having Alderney Airport's runway improved across the board was their preferred way to take matters forward. Their initial approval covered funding to develop site investigations, preliminary and detailed designs to widen and refurbish the main asphalt runway, taxiway and apron and to manage the selection of a shortlist of experienced airfield contractors.
Global infrastructure firm AECOM has been appointed to help the project team to validate the appropriate designs and scheme of works to rehabilitate the Alderney’s runway, apron and taxiway. It will help with the shortlisting process.
Pictured: The States agreed in 2019 work was needed at Alderney Airport.
"The scheme of improvements at Alderney Airport will offer the island’s residents and visitors more resilient air passenger services and runway facilities," Colin Le Ray, the island's Ports General Manager, said. "The project will also provide further opportunities to create a lasting legacy for the island.
"This investment to Alderney Airport’s infrastructure will deliver improvements to the current asphalt surface area, as well as providing new LED lighting technology. The project team is fully aware of the clear direction set by the States of Guernsey to undertake the approved programme and all parties are working hard to deliver that scheme in as quick a timeframe as possible.”
The design work itself will result in options that will include plans to future proof the works, which would work in the possibility for Alderney to have its runway extended in the future.
Pictured: As part of the project planning process, full consideration will be given to any alternative medevac arrangements.
The project team and the consultants are still developing the mix of these options that could be included at the design and construction stages of the preferred scheme, were such options to be economically viable.
The opportunity for brief closures of the airport runway during reconstruction will be reviewed, not least, as this may expedite the works and reduce the cost. However, the project team has a clear understanding that any potential closures should be kept to a minimum due to the island’s reliance on air links for economic and social reasons.
Pictured top: Alderney Airport.
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