Operations at a landfill site next to a proposed £500m ski-centred resort will continue until 2030.

Valencia waste management was given permission to continue operating at the Masons landfill site until December 2030, to be followed by a two-year restoration period by Suffolk County Council's Development and Regulation committee on Monday, October 31.

Backers of the Valley Ridge snow resort project say they are now "analysing" the decision and will issue a statement in the "next few days".

Previously, developers had warned they would pull out of the project should the neighbouring landfill site be granted an extension.

The proposed plans have been in the works for 21 years, originally under the name SnOasis. 

Members of Suffolk County Council’s Development and Regulation committee agreed with the recommendation to grant a shorter extension of operations running until 2030.

The council's decision is subject to it not being called in by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove.

Valencia waste management had previously wanted to continue landfilling operations until October 31 2035, with a restoration period to be completed by October 31 2037.

However, members of the committee were informed that the need to continue landfilling at the site is expected to decline beyond 2030.

Valencia agreed to a shorter extension after officers highlighted the economic potential to be gained from Valley Ridge if it goes ahead, and the environmental benefits from a shorter operational period.

Suffolk County Council Cabinet member for Economic Development, Transport Strategy and Waste, Councillor Richard Smith, said: “I am pleased the committee has resolved to approve this application, which would set a new end date for the final restoration of Masons Landfill and which could facilitate the proposed Valley Ridge development.

“Members have taken this decision based on robust evidence which enables Suffolk to be net self-sufficient in dealing with its waste, along with enabling the neighbouring Valley Ridge development and investment to be delivered.”

The 172-acre former quarry has been used as a waste site since the 1990s.

Valencia waste management has been contacted for comment.