THERE is a sense of optimism and fear in Sark over Sir David and Sir Frederick Barclay’s investments in property. The Brecqhou owners are making significant moves, with reports they will take control of four tenements and a freehold that includes most of one side of The Avenue.

That is in addition to their purchase of the lease of the Beau Regard Hotel and Sir David’s son Duncan’s move to buy La Fripponerie tenement.

Stocks Hotel owner and deputy Paul Armorgie believed the pair were looking to have a controlling influence, either politically or through landholding.

‘Never before, to my knowledge, has anyone come along with the interest and wealth combined who could make a significant difference to the way the island not only is administered but run from a commercial point of view.’

He hoped the pair would be sympathetic to what makes Sark tick.

‘As a business owner I’m quite heartened that they believe there’s a future for Sark and, from a commercial point of view, I share that optimism – I always have done,’ said Deputy Armorgie.

‘But I think the island is divided into those very much in favour of what they’ve done and those very much more sceptical. I would like to think their intentions are honourable.’

Sir David and Sir Frederick have never taken their seat in Chief Pleas which came with their purchase of Brecqhou.

A reform law will soon change the make-up of Sark’s government so more of Chief Pleas is elected by universal suffrage, but until then each tenement comes with a seat.

Members also recently agreed to abolish the Seigneur’s right to a feudal due from every sale – something the Brecqhou owners have long opposed.

‘Whether with treizieme gone and the removal of conge they will feel more comfortable taking their seat, I don’t know,’ said Deputy Armorgie.

He added that Sir David’s and Sir Frederick’s investments over the years had been solid. ‘I think Sark, whether we like it or not, falls under the category of being a shrewd investment. I don’t want Sark to be worse off and hopefully it will be better off.’

Anyone with significant capital coming into the island ran the risk of upsetting someone or creating an imbalance in the community, he said.

‘I think that’s what people fear the most. How will it affect life in Sark?’

Since the beginning of the week, Sark has been buzzing with reports that Sir David and Sir Frederick were sealing deals for substantial amounts of the island.

It is believed they will purchase La Rondellerie, Le Vieux Port, La Jaspellerie and La Moinerie tenements and Le Clos Messervy freehold.

Sir David and Sir Frederick have also acquired a trust fund which was set up to help young Sark people.