Winter sports centre plan delay

An artist's impression of how Snoasis could look

A final decision on plans for one of the largest winter sports centres in Europe has been delayed for more than a month due to wildlife concerns.

Onslow Suffolk wants to build the £350m Snoasis complex at a former quarry in Great Blakenham near Ipswich, Suffolk.

In May the government said it was minded to grant permission and expected to give final approval in September.

But ministers are seeking more facts about rare newts at the site. A final decision will be made on 6 November.

A spokesman for Mid Suffolk District Council, which covers Great Blakenham, said the government had asked for the developer Onslow to say how it would help mitigate the possible damage done to Great Crested Newt populations.

'Package of benefits'

He said Natural England has said it is not happy with Onslow's proposals and the government is asking Natural England to clarify its objections - which has led to the delay.

Onslow Suffolk wants to create an indoor ski slope, ice rink, hotels, as well as shops and apartments.

The firm said a package of benefits costing £29m would be put in place covering a wide range of projects.

These included planting 130,000 trees, improvements to the Copdock intersection of the A12 and A14, skills and training initiatives, and a main line railway station linking to London Liverpool Street.

Some residents have voiced concern about the impact of the complex on the environment and increased traffic congestion.