States investigating “a range of options” for aggregate supply

Wednesday 24 February 2021

The privately-owned Les Vardes Quarry is Guernsey’s only source of aggregate, and it’s running out.

Les Vardes will be completely depleted of granite resources in seven years - with Ronez needing to relocate its stone plant before then in order to access its final reserves. It means the States of Guernsey does not have long to decide on a new long-term source of aggregate.

Express spoke to the Director of Ronez about the unfolding situation, with Steve Roussel saying there are just two ways forward importation, or the development of land at Chouet.

The States have argued that there are more than two options on the table, but have not detailed what they are. 

“The States are aware that there are finite reserves at Les Vardes,” said a spokesperson for the States, “and are currently investigating a range of options for meeting the island's future aggregate demand in a sustainable way.”

Pictured: The stone plant at Les Vardes will need to be moved before the final reserves of granite can be accessed underneath.

It was hoped that a policy letter would be making its way to the States for debate in the early months of this year.

However, it has been revealed that discussions are still ongoing with stakeholders.

“The States will consider the options later this year,” said the spokesperson. Identifying a long-term solutionhas been listed as one of P&R's 'economic recovery' policies in its Government Work Plan, which will go to the States for approval next month.