From Hayley Guéno.
THE States are setting their sights on building more marinas in various locations around the Island, and the prospective project to build a tidal barrage across St Aubin’s Bay is no doubt linked to that.

However, in the current economic climate and with many boats for sale, people are pulling out of the Island, and it seems obvious that Jersey within 18 months may not have such a high demand for marina berths, let alone a waiting list.

I would be more inclined to accept something sustainable yet with far greater potential for being a success which would support the economy rather than drain it of valuable resources.

How about a smaller scale tidal barrage? It could be located possibly at Corbière, where there is a higher tidal flow velocity due to its exposure to the Atlantic. This could be facilitated by raising the causeway, constructing turbines within it, and calibrating them to operate with the tides in order to harness energy while the tide is flowing fastest.

This would supplement the Island’s electricity, if not provide the majority, and would not present a navigational hazard due to the existing lighthouse which could form part of the foundation for the barrage. It could also potentially provide a very good site from which to further study the possibility of harnessing wave energy.

During construction there would be very little if any disruption to shipping, and the location and scale would mean a huge reduction in damage to the current ecosystems in relation to the effects of building a barrage across St Aubin’s Bay. And the work would be much easier and cost-effective due to access at low water.

On completion, I think that this would prove to be of huge benefit to the Island. It does not involve huge changes to the landscape, and does not affect the local heritage. The lighthouse would still be accessible for visitors, St Aubin’s Bay could be kept as it is for locals and visitors to enjoy water sports, charity events etc, while energy could be generated in a cost-effective manner.

I am a student studying ocean science at the University of Plymouth, and although I may not have the years of experience others have, it is clear to me that environmentally and economically, at the very least, the idea of constructing a tidal barrage across St Aubin’s Bay is not likely to be a successful one. The main message I would like to be taken from this is that the States need to think more realistically about projects for the greater good of the Island.

Many people have spoken about their objection to the St Aubin’s Bay tidal barrage as well as similar projects, and if indeed the States are democratic and would listen to Islanders, giving them more choice and involvement, I believe there would be more people, including students, wanting to stay or return to the Island and support the local community and its workforce, as indeed I do.
West End,
Mont ès Croix,
St Brelade.