Alderney Airport’s Runway Extension Faces Rising Costs and Scrutiny

Image Credit: Guernsey Airport
The planning costs for Alderney Airport’s runway extension have soared above £1 million, according to the States Trading Supervisory Board (STSB), the government body responsible for Guernsey’s ports and airline. This latest development follows the recent announcement that the estimated cost of the runway extension project has risen by 50% to £37 million.
The STSB revealed that £1.15 million has already been spent from the allocated budget of £1.76 million. Deputy Peter Roffey, STSB president, stated that the remaining budget should be “sufficient” to find a “smaller scale and more affordable solution.” The funds expended so far have been used for technical advice, project management, design work, and ground and environmental surveys.
Expansion Plans and New Facilities
In addition to the runway extension, Alderney’s Building and Development Control Committee (BDCC) will review a proposal for a new passenger terminal and fire station at the site. The detailed proposal has been a priority for Alderney’s Planning Office, despite limited resources causing delays in routine planning matters.
Submitted by infrastructure consultants AECOM on behalf of Guernsey Ports at the end of 2023, the application seeks permission for the “reconstruction, lengthening, and widening of the current asphalt runway, reconfiguration of the Bravo taxiway, and resurfacing of the apron area.” The plans also include new aerodrome ground approach lighting, drainage, and the construction of new terminal and fire station buildings. An environmental assessment report accompanies the proposal.
Support from Alderney’s Planning Committee
Alderney’s planning committee has unanimously backed the proposals to extend the island’s runway and modernize the airport. All three members of the BDCC voted in favor of the proposals at an open meeting, with committee chairman Kevin Gentle asserting that the application “satisfied all the criteria” and would help “future-proof” Alderney.
“Without reconstruction of this runway, the island will fail,” Gentle stated. The committee reviewed a planning report published earlier in the month, which recommended proceeding with the proposals. Deputy Mark Helyar, who attended the meeting, expressed his support, saying, “I think it’s the right decision for Alderney. It secures transport links and Alderney’s economy. It also safeguards all of the medevac procedures necessary for a very elderly population on the island.”
Financial Concerns and Project Funding
In 2022, Guernsey’s States secured £24 million in funding for the project. However, more than a year later, some deputies have raised concerns about potential cost overruns, suggesting that the plans might be subject to a review. Alderney States member Alex Snowdon acknowledged the likelihood of a review by Guernsey’s States due to concerns about public spending. He emphasized the importance of the runway extension for the island’s future.
“Whatever happens with Alderney runway, it is going to cost money,” Snowdon said. “We were told that the runway extension was future-proofing the island, creating options, and the best option over the medium and long term. I don’t think that has changed.”
Comprehensive Modernization Efforts
The runway extension plans include constructing a new passenger terminal and fire station. Guernsey Ports, the operator of Alderney Airport, is also seeking permission to reconstruct the runway, add new approach lighting, and improve drainage to accommodate Aurigny’s fleet of ATR planes, which currently use smaller Dornier aircraft.
The proposed upgrades are designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and the overall travel experience for passengers. They also aim to support the island’s economic development by ensuring reliable transport links and maintaining vital medical evacuation capabilities.
The BDCC will resume processing regular applications at its June meeting, with most current applications expected to be delayed until July 25. The focus remains on the runway extension and associated developments, with stakeholders hopeful that the project will proceed smoothly despite the financial challenges.
The runway extension and airport modernization are crucial for Alderney, promising improved connectivity, enhanced safety, and a stronger economic future. As the planning costs rise and the project faces scrutiny, the commitment to delivering a more sustainable and efficient airport remains steadfast.
This story was originally featured on BBC