£350m skiing resort gets go-ahead from ministers

(PA)

A £350m winter sports resort can be built on a disused quarry, it has been announced.

The go-ahead was given by ministers yesterday to plans for the SnOasis development near Ipswich, Suffolk.

Developers Onslow Suffolk say the holiday resort will include Europe's largest indoor ski slope, a bobsleigh run, speed skating track and a mile-long cross-country ski run.

Managing director, Godfrey Spanner, said the resort would offer Britain "something unique".

"After eight years and costs running into many millions, we can move forward and give our country something unique to be proud of," he added.

"SnOasis will now become a reality, bringing with it countless opportunities for jobs, the local and national economies, education, athletes and the winter sports industry."

Onslow Suffolk claims the site will create 3,500 jobs and attract 650,000 visitors a year. The Department of Communities and Local Government approved the proposals despite objections from environmentalists.