Go ahead for UK’s longest indoor snow slope... nearly.

The SnOasis indoor snow centre planned for Great Blakenham in Suffolk has almost got the final go ahead after a long battle with local residents culminating with a lengthy public enquiry.

The government has given the go-ahead subject to certain environmental conditions. They have asked for more information on the centre’s carbon emissions. A final, final decision will be given by the Secretary of State for the environment by 17th September.

The SnOasis development will incorporate a 400m slope, about twice as long as the longest of the UK’s five existing, and two under construction indoor slopes. The slope will have a 100m vertical, making use of a disused quarry. Developers Onslow Suffolk say construction of the £350m ($700m US) project could now get underway this year, all being well, with completion possible by London Olympic Year, 2012.

The facility will also include an ice rink, hotels, as well as shops and apartments and create a main line railway station linking to London Liverpool Street and involve the construction of 120 affordable homes.

130,000 trees will be planted to enhance the environment in the area.

The development has been fiercely opposed by local residents close to the site and some environmental groups who say it will threaten bio-diversity in the area. Suffolk council have backed SnOasis saying it will boost the local and regional economy.

You can read the full decision.
More on the BBC News website.

www.snoasis.co.uk