Northern Isle gets the glums

The coupling of spiralling taxes and essential living costs in Alderney with its limited customer base; declining visitor numbers and already strained economy may well lead to debt default and job losses.

That concern, expressed from the floor at this evening’s (Wednesday) People’s Meeting, was shared by States Member Richard Willmott who chaired the meeting and said an urgent green paper on ‘Sustainable Alderney’ is in the pipeline.

Two possibilities actively being pursued to help boost revenue and to protect the workforce are, said Mr. Willmott, differential and higher rates for owners of holiday homes and the construction of a marina.

Law officers are currently considering the differential tax issue, and a public meeting will be held by the end of this month to outline five potential sites for a marina. Those sites are believed to be Crabby Bay, Braye Beach, Douglas Quay, Maggie’s Bay and an area below the Arsenal.

The rather gloomy 55-minute meeting in the Island Hall was attended by around 30 people including two States Members and States President Sir Norman Browse. (from Cionline)