BOSSES behind Snoasis, the massive indoor ski complex planned for Suffolk, today pledged to invest millions of pounds in the project – before it's even given the go-ahead. But prospects for the centre could still hinge on a blueprint for East Anglia's future.

BOSSES behind Snoasis, the massive indoor ski complex planned for Suffolk, today pledged to invest millions of pounds in the project – before it's even given the go-ahead.

Developers for the enormous centre, which would be based at Great Blakenham, say they expect to spend £2.5million on professional fees to ensure the £300m resort is given the best possible chance of success.

But its future could still hinge on its inclusion in a blueprint on future developments in East Anglia.

If the proposal is mentioned in the regional plan, due to be announced in February, it would clear the way for a planning application to follow, probably in the spring of 2004. Failure to be included could delay the completion date by two years.

Godfrey Spanner, the driving force behind the development, said: "If Great Blakenham is mentioned as a specific area for a destination resort, it will be a winner. If the former Mason's Quarry is mentioned it will be a hands-down winner."

FULL STORY IN TONIGHT'S EVENING STAR