Anger grows in Alderney over cable plans
Alderney residents voiced their anger about controversial plans to run a power cable through the island at the September States Meeting last night.
The meeting at the Courthouse, which followed a demonstration on Sunday at Longis, and a packed public meeting on the topic last week, was filled to capacity, with waves of people told they were unable to attend.
The multi-million pound project (FAB Link) would see a cable export electricity from France to the UK, via the island.
At the start of the meeting four Islanders formally brought questions to the States about FAB Link, and the linked project to develop tidal power in Alderney waters, which would involve building a 1,200 sq metre, 20m high converter station at Mannez Quarry.
A planning application for FAB Link is expected to be submitted in December.
Barrister William Tate said he believed that the States are failing to operate in the interests of democracy and good governance.
Most of the States Members spoke up in favour of FAB Link, previously all 10 agreed to granting FAB Link options on leases for States land needed for the cable.
Ian Tugby, who has lived on the island for 70 years, said he wants the Island to return to the vibrant, prosperous place it was during the 60s, 70s and 80s.
But several States Members are now agreeing that more independent information, and public engagement, is needed on the issue.
Neil Harvey said there was still time to commission an independent report by a university.
Francis Simonet said a cost-benefit analysis would be helpful.