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Guernsey is set to become a world-leader in subatomic particle physics research thanks to new scientific investment.
Billionaire James Underpass has announced his plans to plough £15 billion into constructing a world-class particle accelerator, dubbed the Guernsey Super Collider (GSC).
The GSC would dwarf the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in Switzerland - currently the largest facility of its kind in the world – with a circumference of over 60 miles and more than 50m underground.
In an exclusive interview, Mr Underpass stated: "The Guernsey Super Collider will not only smash particles, but also misconceptions about the island being a hick backwater.
“Just you wait – those particles will be more smashed than the patrons of the Harbour Lights pub or the Development & Planning Authority’s credibility.”
Mr Underpass made headlines last April for his idea to tunnel between Cobo and Belle Greve Bay. However, since then, he decided to direct his money into more practical and fruitful ventures.
“All the tunnel-boring machines were already on-island and ready to go for the superhighway, but I then recognised that Guernsey needed serious help with its finances. What better way to realise that, and make a vine house load of money for myself, than make the island an international hub for science,” he said.
Pictured: An artist’s impression of the scale of the facility.
But the announcement has not been welcomed by all, with many residents expressing serious concerns about the environmental impact, the influx of scientists to the island, and whether the project will mean a loss of car parking spaces.
One incensed resident told Express: "First they want to turn our beautiful island into some sort of mad scientist's playground, and now they might be taking away our parking spaces?! This could shape up to be yet another attack on the humble motorist."
Someone living in the north commented: “If they even think about putting the entrance in the Vale then I’m moving to Jersey. And you can print that."
Another resident was more confused with the project: “GSC? I thought the States just threw that out? I said it at the time and I will say it again - GSC is a recipe for chaos, and we won't stand for it."
Should the project be approved, Policy & Resources has indicated that key worker accommodation for agency science staff could be built on L’Ancresse Common, sparking a rebellion from local golfers and anti-tank wall enthusiasts.
If planning permission is granted the first stretch of tunnels should be completed by 1 April 2024.
Pictured: Cyclists have also lambasted the lack of bike infrastructure around the collider’s perimeter in the plans.
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