States of Alderney 'fully supports' building of £25 million marina

The States of Alderney is to tell developers that it 'fully supports' the creation of a marina on the island, and has invited them submit a detailed written proposal on the project.

Braye Harbour Developments has proposed building a 400 berth marina and waterfront houses with private berths, on the rocky south east corner of Braye Bay.

It would also involve the building of two breakwater arms to protect boats moored in the new marina.

The development company comprises of long time Alderney visitor Gordon Owen, who founded Walcon Marine, and specialist architect Kay Elliott.

The proposal was made to the General Services Committee, and was subsequently discussed at the Policy and Finance Committee meeting on Thursday 25 June.

Mr McKinley says the States was offered the opportunity to buy the nearby Arsenal for £2 million, which it rejected, but hopes to use some parts of the site for the new development.

It would be built on States-owned land and leased, though specific details of any agreement are yet to be finalised. Developers are not requesting States funding for the project.

Braye Harbour Developments has asked to be granted a year during which it wants to guarantee it would be the only firm working with the States on a marina project . Detailed engineering surveys would be carried out on the land during this time.

The correspondence requesting one year's exclusivity will be reviewed by a commercial lawyer.

While that exclusivity option was not granted at Thursday's meeting, the outcome was 'positive' according to GSC chairman, Graham McKinley.

The plans have the backing of the president of the Alderney Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Eggleston, who says the marina would provide a much-needed boost for the island's economy.

A third meeting is due to take place with the developers at the end of July, when is it hoped an agreement will be reached.