A referendum on building a new airfield or replacing RMS St Helena was held in Saint Helena between 21 January and 1 February 2002.[1] Around 72% voted in favour of the airport, although critics claimed that the referendum was slanted in favour of this option.[2]
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[_] I WOULD LIKE to have an airport on St Helena, with alternative arrangements being made for shipping. [_] I WOULD NOT LIKE to have an airport but would like to have a replacement RMS St Helena. | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Background
RMS St Helena was the island's only connection with the outside world, but required replacing at an estimated cost of £26 million. The cost of the alternative option of a new airport was estimated at £50 million. The island's Executive Council initially rejected holding a referendum, but agreed to do so on 8 January 2002.[1]
All Saint Helena citizens aged over 16 and based in Saint Helena, Ascension Island, the Falkland Islands and on board RMS St Helena were eligible to vote.[1] Voters were given the options:
- I WOULD LIKE to have an airport on St Helena, with alternative arrangements being made for shipping.
- I WOULD NOT LIKE to have an airport but would like to have a replacement RMS St Helena.
Results
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| Airport | 1,577 | 71.58 |
| New ship | 626 | 28.42 |
| Invalid/blank votes | 13 | – |
| Total | 2,216 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | 4,473 | 49.54 |
| Source: Direct Democracy | ||