Alderney, a small but essential island in the Channel Islands, is facing an urgent infrastructure challenge. The island’s airport runway, a critical lifeline for its residents, requires immediate attention to ensure its continued operation. Recently, a defective section of the runway forced the temporary closure of Alderney Airport for repairs on Friday and Saturday. This has sparked concerns among both residents and local politicians, with calls for repairs to be fast-tracked.
Steve Roberts, Vice President of Alderney States, has been vocal about the growing urgency of the situation. He warned that if the repairs are delayed further, the island could face serious consequences. According to Roberts, the runway is in such a condition that if further deterioration occurs, the island could lose access to its airport entirely, which would be catastrophic for the local community. He emphasized the need for swift action, highlighting the potential consequences if the Civil Aviation Authority were to close the runway permanently until it is refurbished. For an island already dependent on air transport, such a scenario would be disastrous.
In response to growing concerns, a petition was launched online, calling for the resurfacing of Alderney’s runway by the end of March. The petition has garnered over 1,000 signatures, reflecting widespread community support for immediate action. The public’s demand is clear: the runway’s repairs should not be delayed any longer.
Over the past decade, Alderney’s airport has seen more than £2 million spent on runway repairs. However, these temporary fixes have not provided a long-term solution. The wear and tear on the runway have reached a point where a more permanent, comprehensive repair plan is necessary. In response to the petition, Deputy Lyndon Trott, president of the Policy & Resources Committee, acknowledged the issue and stated that a review of infrastructure projects is now required. Trott confirmed that the States of Alderney will debate the proposed runway rehabilitation project in the coming months. However, he added that any solution must remain within the original £24 million estimate to ensure affordability.
While the debate on the long-term plan is ongoing, Roberts is calling for immediate action. He is advocating for an emergency debate to push the repairs forward and prevent further delays. Roberts, who understands the critical role the airport plays in the daily life of Alderney’s residents, stressed that the island’s dependence on air travel is not just about convenience it’s a matter of life and death. For residents in need of medical attention, such as scans, biopsies, and test results, the airport is the only viable route to healthcare facilities. The alternative, traveling by boat, is not only impractical but also dangerous, especially for elderly or ill individuals who may struggle with boat access and ladder climbs.
In Alderney, the runway is more than just a strip of asphalt; it’s a vital connection to the outside world. The island relies on its airport for medical emergencies, business, and tourism. Without a fully functional runway, Alderney’s residents face significant risks and disruptions to their daily lives. The call for urgent repairs is not just a political issue; it is a matter of public safety and well-being. As the debate continues, the community hopes that Alderney’s leadership will take swift and decisive action to ensure the runway is repaired and the island’s future remains secure.
