Plans for a subsidised ferry service between Alderney and Guernsey have been put on hold.
Alderney’s Economic Development Committee (EDC) has decided not to award a subsidy following a procurement process to identify an operator for a seasonal inter-island service in 2026.
The Committee considered the results of the tender process at its meeting on 4 June and concluded that it was not in a position to select a preferred provider.
According to the EDC, the information submitted by bidders did not provide sufficient assurance that a robust and reliable service could be delivered for the 2026 season.
The Committee said it had taken a comprehensive approach when engaging with suppliers in an effort to secure a service that would meet the needs of both islanders and visitors. However, it concluded that the tender criteria had not been met and that there was insufficient evidence to justify the use of public funds.
While the tender process did not produce the outcome it had hoped for, the Committee noted that connectivity between Alderney and Guernsey continues to be provided by independent operators without States support.
The EDC said it will continue to explore alternative options and delivery models to strengthen inter-island connectivity in the future, with reliability, quality and safety remaining key priorities.
Stuart Clark, Chair of the Economic Development Committee, said the decision had not been taken lightly. He explained: “The investment of public funds in the current financial climate must be supported by both quantitative and qualitative factors to satisfy internal and external scrutiny.
“On this occasion, we are not satisfied that the tender criteria were met in order to provide us with the required assurances to warrant such an investment of public funds.
“EDC is confident that the range of providers competing in the market will ensure that connectivity between the islands continues and wishes all operators a safe and prosperous season.”
