SUFFOLK'S SnOasis project has received powerful backing in the run up to its application for full planning permission.Suffolk County Council's cabinet has given its backing to the principle of the project - although it is insisting on infrastructure improvements as part of the development.

SUFFOLK'S SnOasis project has received powerful backing in the run up to its application for full planning permission.

Suffolk County Council's cabinet has given its backing to the principle of the project - although it is insisting on infrastructure improvements as part of the development.

The key improvement is to the Copdock Mill junction where the A12 meets the A14. The county council insists that improvements to this key junction should be carried out before Snoasis can open to the public.

Council leader Jeremy Pembroke said: “The last thing we want is for SnOasis to open and then face disruption as improvements are carried out at Copdock Mill.

“That has to be sorted out before the new leisure complex is open. It will be paid for by a combination of Hutchison (which is expanding Felixstowe port) and Onslow (SnOasis developers).

“This is not a major problem. There has already been agreement to carry out improvements to the junction - we just need to be sure of the timing of those.”

Mr Pembroke said the development of SnOasis and the 2,000 permanent jobs it would bring would be a great boost for the Ipswich area.

He said: “From an economic development point of view it is very important. It is the largest single development in the county for many, many years.

“We welcome the investment - but we have to be aware that there will be people in some places like Blakenham, Sproughton, and nearby villagers who have quite justifiable concerns.

“We have to try to do what we can to ease those concerns - but the project itself should be welcomed for the new jobs it will bring to the Ipswich area.”

The proposed new railway station should also help traffic congestion in the area, he said.

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