The work was organised by Guernsey Ports on behalf of the States’ Trading Supervisory Board. It follows a debate in the States in June 2021 where it was decided that the feasibility of a Pool Marina would be investigated.
A Policy Letter, and the findings of the work being undertaken, will be published together in December 2022.
Deputy Lester Queripel wanted reassurance that any investigatory work would allow for contaminated material to be found and dealt with properly.
“If any of the material from the sea bed is discovered to be contaminated in any way, can you tell me please how it will be disposed of?” he asked.
The President of STSB, Deputy Peter Roffey, said: “As part of the current site investigations, seabed samples are being collected and will be tested in a UK laboratory to determine if there is any contamination within the Harbour.
“The extent and nature of any contamination will then determine the most suitable treatment, containment or disposal options.”
Pictured: “I was really concerned about what they were picking up from the harbour bed,” said Deputy Queripel.
Deputy Queripel welcomed the answers to his questions but was surprised to hear that there is no distance limit for works next to existing harbour structures.
He asked STSB if he was correct in thinking work was only permitted up to a certain distance from the harbour walls.
“There are no prescribed limits for work on the seabed next to existing Harbour structures,” said Deputy Roffey, “however wherever any such work is required, including dredging, Guernsey Ports will carry out a risk assessment to determine the extent so as not to structurally compromise any walls, piers or other existing structures.
“As part of the Pool Marina study, an engineering assessment is being made as to how close to existing structures dredging can be undertaken, along with any mitigation measures that could improve the extent of the dredged areas.”
Pictured: Investigations into the seabed have now concluded and the barge will be removed shortly.
Deputy Queripel continued with a question regarding staffing of Guernsey Ports and whether the Fish Quay is currently meeting the needs of local fisherman.
“I heard a lot of stories that suggested locals weren’t being catered for and the harbour facilities aren’t adequate,” he said.
Deputy Roffey said the Fish Quay facilities could be improved and “reflect the age of the current facility”.
He continued: “There are currently nine boats on the waiting list for ‘alongside’ Fish Quay moorings. Two of these are already accommodated on the Fish Quay but have registered a need to change their mooring provision.
“All but two of the remaining vessels are currently accommodated elsewhere in St Peter Port Harbour and a third is moored on the west coast.”